With Quebec independence a top priority, Parti Québécois struggles for relevance in Trump era

The recent tariff threats and digs at Canadian sovereignty by U.S. President Donald Trump have forced Canadian politicians, including the Parti Québécois, to adapt to a new political landscape. In Quebec, the opposition party is facing a particularly tough challenge as calls for Canadian unity in the face of Trump’s threats are surging.

Parti Québécois Leader, Paul St-Pierre Plamondon, has made Quebec independence a central promise, with plans for a referendum on sovereignty within a first PQ mandate. This message has revitalized the party, but Trump’s presence has changed the game. People are questioning whether it’s the right time for Quebec to consider independence when even a G7 country like Canada seems vulnerable next to Trump.

Support for sovereignty in Quebec has dropped to its lowest level in years, according to polling firm Léger marketing. While the PQ remains first in voting intentions in Quebec, its popularity has declined since Trump’s election. The party’s traditional strategy of pushing for Quebec independence and criticizing Ottawa is now more challenging.

Despite the tariff crisis, the PQ has doubled down on its independence message, arguing that it’s the best way for Quebec to protect itself from threats from the U.S. The party has insisted that Canadian unity is a myth and that Quebec would be better off as an independent nation. However, some analysts believe that this strategy is not resonating with voters who are seeking unity in the face of external threats.

The PQ is also facing challenges related to its alignment with Trump’s views on the so-called ‘woke’ movement. While the party generally leans left, St-Pierre Plamondon has criticized woke ideology, aligning him with Trump’s ‘war on woke.’ This stance may be unpopular with voters who are wary of anything associated with Trump.

Despite these challenges, the PQ remains committed to its message of Quebec independence. Supporters believe that Quebec would have more freedom and a stronger bargaining position with the U.S. on trade if it were a separate country. The party’s criticism of woke ideology is seen as more nuanced and moderate than Trump’s, aligning it with other left-leaning politicians like Barack Obama and Bernie Sanders.

Overall, the Parti Québécois faces a complex political landscape in the era of Trump. While its message of independence may resonate with some, the party must navigate the challenges of aligning with Trump’s views on certain issues and the growing calls for Canadian unity in the face of external threats.