What Happened
The Parti Québécois (PQ) has successfully reclaimed the Chicoutimi seat in a recent by-election, with candidate Marie-Karlynn Laflamme winning decisively. The election results showed Laflamme receiving 45.07% of the votes, significantly ahead of her closest rival, Catherine Morissette of the Conservative Party, who garnered 25.49%. This victory marks a notable comeback for the PQ, which has now won four by-elections since the general election of 2022.
Why It Matters
Paul St-Pierre Plamondon, the leader of the PQ, emphasized the importance of this win, stating that it reflects a demand for significant change in Quebec politics. The results indicate a shift in voter sentiment, particularly as the Conservative Party has made gains, with Morissette’s performance exceeding that of previous candidates. The voter turnout was reported at 31.71%, which is notably lower than the turnout during the 2022 general election.
What’s Next
This victory is expected to provide momentum for the PQ as they prepare for the upcoming general elections in October. Plamondon expressed optimism that the party’s recent successes will energize their campaign efforts. The results also suggest a growing presence of the Conservative Party in the region, indicating potential shifts in voter alliances moving forward.
