Quebec separatists rule out independence vote while Trump in power

MONTREAL, Aug 20 — The Parti Quebecois (PQ) leader, Paul St-Pierre Plamondon, has ruled out an independence referendum for Quebec during the tenure of US President Donald Trump. Plamondon, known by his initials PSPP, emphasized that any decision on Quebec’s independence necessitates an informed and calm debate, emphasizing that it should not be influenced by American politics or an unpredictable President Trump.

While polls indicate that the PQ is expected to win the October elections in Quebec, they also reveal that a majority of people in the predominantly French-speaking province do not favor independence. A recent Leger poll showed that 63 percent of Quebecers opposed independence, 28 percent were in favor, and 9 percent were undecided.

Political experts have long argued that Trump’s economic tactics, such as tariffs and annexation threats, have weakened the pro-independence movement in Quebec. Quebec’s separation could introduce a new dimension of uncertainty for Canada, which is already facing intense pressure from the United States, according to experts. If elected, PSPP’s government would focus on enhancing public services, tackling affordability concerns, and restoring Quebecers' confidence in themselves as a nation.

However, he cautioned that this is an unsuitable time to ponder Quebec’s future amidst Trump’s administration. In Alberta, an oil-rich province in Canada’s west, there has been a growing push for independence, with separatists believing that Trump’s presidency presents an opportune moment to sever ties with Canada. While they have not advocated for joining the United States as a 51st state, they argue that Trump’s backing could enable Alberta to gain financial and political support in return for favorable access to the province’s abundant crude reserves.