Quebec Liberal party leadership: Karl Blackburn will not be a candidate
Posted November 22, 2024 9:49 am.
The President and CEO of the Conseil du patronat (CPQ), Karl Blackburn, has put an end to the suspense: he will not be a candidate in the Quebec Liberal Party (PLQ) leadership race.
He made the announcement on his Facebook page. “In recent weeks, several friends and former political colleagues have encouraged me to think again about running for the PLQ leadership. While this mark of confidence touches me seriously and sincerely, I have decided to prioritize my health, my family and the CPQ,” he wrote.
Blackburn has prostate cancer. He underwent surgery in recent weeks “which went well.” “I am confident that my convalescence will allow me to gradually resume my professional activities in the coming weeks,” he added.
Blackburn’s name was circulating among Liberal activists. A few months ago, during a visit to the National Assembly, he hinted that he might be in the running after overcoming his illness.
Blackburn was Liberal MNA for Roberval from 2003 to 2007. He also served as party organizer and general manager.
Currently, five candidates are on the starting line: former federal minister Pablo Rodriguez, former Montreal mayor Denis Coderre, former CEO of the Fédération des chambres de commerce du Québec Charles Milliard, MP Frédéric Beauchemin and tax lawyer Marc Bélanger.
The race officially begins in January 2025. The new Liberal leader will be chosen in the summer of that year.
–This report by La Presse Canadienne was translated by CityNews
