Quebec party leaders gear up for second TV debate of election campaign

"They're trying to focus on their platform and what they're proposing to Quebecers," political analyst Daniel Tran said of PQ leader Paul St-Pierre Plamondon's debate performance, which polled the highest post-debate. Zachary Cheung reports.

By The Canadian Press

Posted September 16, 2026 4:00 am.

Last Updated September 16, 2026 7:06 am.

MONTREAL — Leaders of the five Quebec political parties are gearing up for the second debate of the campaign.

The first debate on Tuesday saw leaders spar over a range of topics, including the economy, Quebec sovereignty and immigration.

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Coalition Avenir Québec Leader Christine Fréchette also came under fire as her rivals criticized the last eight years of her party’s governance.

Fréchette sought to distance herself from her predecessor, François Legault, while saying she can bring the province much-needed stability.

Tonight’s debate on Noovo-Crave is the second of three planned exchanges between the leaders of the Coalition Avenir Québec, Parti Québécois, Quebec Liberals, Conservatives and Québéc solidaire.

Voters go to the polls Oct. 5.

Composite photo of (Left to Right) Parti Québécois Leader Paul St-Pierre Plamondon, Quebec Premier Christine Frechette, Quebec Liberal party Leader Charles Milliard, Quebec Conservative Leader Eric Duhaime, Quebec Solidaire co-spokesperson Ruba Ghazal on the campaign trail THE CANADIAN PRESS/Graham Hughes, Jacques Boissinot
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