Conservative Leader Duhaime Launches Sharp Critique of PQ Leadership at Policy Convention
During the Conservative Party of Quebec's policy convention held in Lac-Delage over the weekend, leader Éric Duhaime delivered pointed criticism against Parti Québécois leader Paul St-Pierre Plamondon, characterizing him as "out of touch" and "arrogant" in his political approach. The convention, which drew approximately 200 supporters to Manoir du Lac-Delage north of Quebec City, served as both a platform for policy development and a stage for political confrontation ahead of the October provincial election.
Strategic Candidate Announcements and Political Positioning
Duhaime strategically unveiled 10 new Conservative candidates who will compete in the upcoming election, expanding the party's roster to 14 confirmed contenders. The newly announced candidates represent diverse ridings across Quebec, signaling the party's intention to broaden its electoral reach beyond traditional strongholds.
The Conservative leader took particular issue with the PQ's self-description as a "government in waiting" and their premature discussion of referendum campaigns. "Mr. St-Pierre Plamondon is the guy who is organizing the Stanley Cup parade on Ste-Catherine St. in Montreal when he doesn't even have a team to make the playoffs," Duhaime remarked, employing vivid imagery to question the PQ leader's political judgment.
Electoral Dynamics and Policy Directions
The political landscape features particularly intense competition in the Chicoutimi riding, where a February 23 byelection will test Conservative strength against PQ momentum. According to a Pallas Data poll commissioned by the Conservatives, the PQ currently leads with 43 percent support compared to 23 percent for Duhaime's party in that constituency.
Beyond political rhetoric, the convention focused on substantive policy development, with delegates considering more than 60 proposals that will shape the Conservative election platform. Key policy directions that emerged include:
- Tax reduction measures for both individuals and businesses
- Initiatives to encourage higher birth rates, potentially including financial benefits for women
- Reduction of the welcome tax for home buyers
- Establishment of rights for cryptocurrency ownership without declaration requirements
- Proposals to strengthen Quebec's autonomy relative to federal authority
Broader Political Context and Strategic Alliances
Duhaime positioned his party as the authentic conservative alternative in Quebec politics, suggesting that both the PQ and Coalition Avenir Québec represent what he called "copies" rather than genuine conservative options. He noted what he perceives as a rightward shift in Quebec politics, with CAQ leadership candidates now presenting themselves as "centre-right apostles."
The convention also featured former senator Pierre-Hugues Boisvenu as an expert adviser, presenting proposals to reinforce the prison system and support law enforcement—all of which were adopted by delegates. Additionally, Duhaime welcomed former CAQ MNA Maïté Blanchette Vézina as a guest of honor, announcing their collaboration on legislation to regionalize immigration and enhance francization tools for Quebec regions.
As the October election approaches, Duhaime confirmed his intention to run in a rural riding within the Greater Quebec City area, while expressing hope that Blanchette Vézina will ultimately represent the Conservatives in the next provincial contest.
