(CPOD) Apr. 3, 2003. – The televised debate between the leaders of Quebec’s political parties appears to have helped the Quebec Liberal Party, according to a poll by Léger Marketing published in two Montreal dailies. 42 per cent of Quebecers say they would back the Liberals in the election, a small lead over the separatist Parti Québécois (PQ). The conservative Action démocratique du Québec (ADQ)
(CPOD) Apr. 3, 2003. – The televised debate between the leaders of Quebec’s political parties appears to have helped the Quebec Liberal Party, according to a poll by Léger Marketing published in two Montreal dailies. 42 per cent of Quebecers say they would back the Liberals in the election, a small lead over the separatist Parti Québécois (PQ). The conservative Action démocratique du Québec (ADQ) is a distant third.
This is the first survey released since the Mar. 31 debate, where current PQ premier Bernard Landry, Liberal leader Jean Charest, and ADQ counterpart Mario Dumont squared off. The election to renew the 125-seat National Assembly in the largest Canadian province is set for Apr. 14.
The ruling party has been hurt by the comments of a former premier. Jacques Parizeau—in power from 1994 to 1996—recently revisited controversial statements made after the last separation referendum. Parizeau once again said that the separatist cause was hurt in 1995 by “money and the ethnic vote.”
The PQ still holds a considerable lead with French-speakers, which amount to 80 per cent of Quebec’s population. Core support for the Liberals comes from the Montreal area, as well as English-speaking Quebecers and immigrants.
Polling Data
What party would you vote for, if the election were held today?
Quebec Liberal Party | 42% |
Parti Québécois | 40% |
Action démocratique du Québec | 18% |
What party would you vote for, if the election were held today?
(French-speaking voters only)
Parti Québécois | 46% |
Quebec Liberal Party | 34% |
Action démocratique du Québec | 19% |
