Quebec’s New PQ Government Faces Early Public Skepticism
A new Pallas Data poll reveals low satisfaction levels for the Parti québécois administration.
1Low Initial Approval Ratings
The new Parti québécois government, led by Paul St-Pierre Plamondon, faces significant public skepticism shortly after taking office. A Pallas Data poll indicates that 51% of Quebecers are dissatisfied with the administration's early actions. Only 24% of respondents expressed satisfaction, marking a challenging start for the newly elected provincial leadership team.
2Broad Demographic Dissatisfaction
The sentiment of dissatisfaction is widespread across the province, transcending traditional demographic divides. Data shows that both men and women, as well as all age groups, share this critical view of the government's initial steps. This uniform response suggests that the current disapproval is not confined to specific segments of the population.
3Historical Comparison of Satisfaction
When compared to previous administrations, the current government's standing appears notably fragile. The former Fréchette government, even during its decline, maintained a 29% satisfaction rate in late September. In contrast, the current PQ administration struggles to reach even that level, highlighting the depth of the public's current hesitation regarding the new leadership.
4Federal Versus Provincial Contrast
The political climate in Quebec contrasts sharply with the federal level. While the provincial government faces high dissatisfaction, the federal government under Mark Carney currently enjoys a 59% satisfaction rate. Only 30% of the electorate expressed dissatisfaction with the federal administration, according to the figures provided by the Qc125 data analysis.
5Establishing a Baseline Metric
Conducted on November 7, 2026, this Pallas Data survey serves as a foundational reference point. With 1,094 respondents, the study aims to establish a baseline for future tracking. Qc125 emphasizes that it is still very early to judge specific policy measures, as the government has yet to open the parliamentary session.
6Shifting Voting Intentions
Despite low satisfaction, the Parti québécois maintains a lead in voting intentions at 31%, a three-point increase since the October elections. The Liberal Party follows closely at 28%, gaining four points. Meanwhile, the CAQ has fallen to 5%, while the Conservative Party and Québec solidaire hold 21% and 13% respectively.
7Francophone Electorate Support
The Parti québécois remains the dominant force among francophone voters, securing 35% of their support. While the Liberal Party is showing signs of progress within this demographic, the PQ continues to hold the top position. This core support remains a critical pillar for the party as it navigates its early parliamentary challenges.
8Future Parliamentary Outlook
With the parliamentary session in Quebec set to open in three weeks, the government faces mounting pressure to address public concerns. The gap between voting intentions and satisfaction levels suggests a complex political landscape. Observers will monitor upcoming legislative actions to see if the government can reverse these early negative trends.
Original article: La Presse — Quebec’s New PQ Government Faces Early Public Skepticism