Doug Ford Issues Stark Warning on Parti Québécois Election Prospects
Ontario Premier Doug Ford has delivered a forceful warning, stating that a victory for the Parti Québécois in the upcoming Quebec election would constitute a "disaster" for Canada. His remarks came during a gathering of provincial leaders in Ottawa, where he stressed the critical importance of national unity in the face of mounting economic pressures.
"It Would Be a Disaster for Our Country"
"It would be a disaster for our country if the separatists got elected," Ford declared in response to questions about the political scenario. "It's as simple as that." He made these comments as premiers convened for a Council of the Federation meeting with Prime Minister Mark Carney, a session underscored by renewed trade-war anxieties stemming from actions by U.S. President Donald Trump.
Economic Unity Amid External Threats
Ford framed his caution against the backdrop of economic challenges, accusing Trump of "taking direct aim at Canadian workers in every province and every industry." He emphasized that "there has never been a more important time in our history to make sure we act together," arguing that solidarity would bolster both Quebec and the broader nation. "Free trade within Canada makes us stronger, more resilient and more competitive," he added, highlighting the benefits of internal cohesion.
Parti Québécois' Resurgent Sovereignty Agenda
The Parti Québécois, under leader Paul St-Pierre Plamondon, has reaffirmed its commitment to holding a third referendum on Quebec independence. Currently leading in polls, the party has reinvigorated the sovereignty debate, positioning it at the forefront of provincial politics. From a modest three-seat showing in the 2022 election, the PQ has expanded its caucus through byelections and maintained poll dominance for over two years.
Allied Voices and Political Rebuttals
New Brunswick Premier Susan Holt joined Ford in expressing concern, noting that renewed discussions on Quebec's role could weaken Canada's economic standing. "Canada is much stronger with Quebec," she stated. "With everything that is going on right now, we should not be adding to economic and social uncertainty."
In response, St-Pierre Plamondon appeared to mock Ford during a QUB Radio interview, sarcastically remarking, "When Doug Ford speaks, I see no reason to doubt that he speaks because he loves Quebec." Bloc Québécois leader Yves-François Blanchet dismissed the comments as reflective of an "Ontario-centric view," suggesting that if a separatist government is seen as a disaster, it is because "Canada is Ontario."
Broader Implications and Diplomatic Perspectives
St-Pierre Plamondon has consistently criticized federal foreign policy under both Justin Trudeau and Mark Carney, though he has faced accusations of adopting a softer stance toward Trump. He contends that Quebec would be better served by direct diplomacy with Washington, arguing for a less arrogant and more pragmatic approach. "It is in our interest to speak with our own voice and to have diplomacy in Washington," he asserted last fall, adding that Canada has become a "cacophony" rather than a shield for Quebec.
This exchange highlights the deepening political fissures as Canada navigates complex internal and external challenges, with unity and sovereignty debates taking center stage in national discourse.
