Poll Indicates 15% Firm Support for Quebec Separation, Majority Favor Canada
A recent Angus-Reid survey reveals that hard-core support for Quebec separation stands at 15 per cent among decided voters, with an additional 11 per cent leaning toward that option. The poll, conducted in early February 2026, highlights the ongoing debate over sovereignty as the Parti Québécois pledges a third referendum if they secure a majority in the upcoming October general election.
Majority of Quebecers Prepared to Remain in Canada
The findings show that 50 per cent of Quebecers are prepared to vote to remain in Canada, with another 15 per cent leaning toward that decision. This indicates a significant majority favoring continued union with Canada. A total of 10 per cent of respondents remain undecided on how they would vote in a potential referendum.
Partisan Breakdown and U.S. Concerns
Not surprisingly, 64 per cent of self-described Parti Québécois supporters would vote to leave in a referendum, compared to lower percentages among supporters of other parties: 15 per cent for Coalition Avenir Québec, 16 per cent for Québec solidaire, and 18 per cent for the Quebec Conservative Party.
The survey also explores perceptions of U.S. intervention, with 76 per cent of Quebecers believing the U.S. would use political means and 79 per cent economic means to compel an independent Quebec to join them. Half of respondents (51 per cent) worry about potential military action by the U.S.
Influencing Factors and Economic Worries
Among those firmly supporting separation, 91 per cent cite that "Canada's institutions will always favour English Canada over Quebec" as a convincing reason to leave. In contrast, economic concerns are prominent among leaners, with 54 per cent of those leaning toward voting to leave citing increased economic instability as a reason to stay in Canada.
Methodology and Details
The online survey involved 939 Canadian adults living in Quebec and was conducted from February 2 to 6, 2026. While margins of error are not applicable to online polls, a probability sample of this size would typically have a margin of error of plus or minus three percentage points, 19 times out of 20.
For full details of the Angus-Reid poll, refer to the official report. This data provides critical insights into public sentiment as Quebec approaches a pivotal election season.
