Parti Québécois says it won’t hold referendum on sovereignty while Trump is president

Montreal - The leader of the Parti Québécois has stated that his party would not initiate a referendum on Quebec's sovereignty while President Donald Trump remains in office. This stance comes despite the party's intention to hold such a referendum in its first term following a government victory. Paul St-Pierre Plamondon, the party leader, emphasizes that a matter as significant as Quebec's future should not be interfered with by American politics or unexpected statements from the U.S. president.

He also notes that the erratic behavior of the Trump administration could potentially disrupt the referendum process and diminish the quality of the debate surrounding Quebec's destiny. St-Pierre Plamondon is currently leading in recent polls ahead of a general election in Quebec that must take place before October 5. This report was originally published by The Canadian Press on August 18, 2026.