PQ Rules Out Sovereignty Referendum During Trump Presidency

The Parti Québécois leader Paul St-Pierre Plamondon says the party will not hold a sovereignty referendum while Donald Trump is president, delaying any vote until after his term ends on January 20, 2029. He adds that the referendum should occur during the first term if elected, but only under calm, informed conditions and not amid American political upheaval or fear campaigns. The PQ plans to campaign on domestic priorities such as reducing bureaucracy, cost of living, housing, and health, aiming to restore confidence in Quebec. Polls show the PQ leading the race with around 30% support for sovereignty, though overall support for independence remains modest. Analysts note that Trump’s tariff policies and rhetoric about making Canada a 51st state have influenced separatist sentiment in Quebec and beyond. The campaign framing emphasizes governance and renewal rather than referendum timing.