The sovereigntist Parti Québécois has secured a majority in the Quebec provincial election, according to the CTV Decision Desk. Paul St-Pierre Plamondon will become the province’s next premier, succeeding Christine Fréchette of the Coalition Avenir Québec. The CAQ, which had governed for eight years, is nearly eliminated from the electoral map.

Plamondon’s victory marks a significant political shift in Quebec. The PQ, which had been in political decline for over a decade, has regained its former prominence. The election results signal a renewed push for sovereignty, with the PQ now in power to shape Quebec’s future.

This outcome follows a long period of political uncertainty in Quebec. The PQ had struggled to maintain relevance in the National Assembly, while the CAQ, led by Fréchette, faced internal challenges and declining support. The election campaign saw intense debates over Quebec’s role within Canada, with the PQ advocating for greater autonomy.

The election also coincides with ongoing discussions about the Churchill Falls hydroelectric project. Newfoundland and Labrador officials are waiting to see how Quebec’s new government will approach negotiations on the deal. The outcome of the election may influence the pace and terms of the agreement.

Fréchette expressed regret over the campaign’s conclusion, acknowledging the challenges faced by her party. The PQ’s victory suggests a growing public appetite for a more independent Quebec, potentially reshaping the province’s political landscape for years to come.