Coalition Avenir Québec (CAQ) Leader and Quebec Premier Christine Fréchette says she is concerned about the possibility of U.S. interference in Quebec’s provincial election, as voters prepare to head to the polls on October 5.
Fréchette said Friday that she had alerted Prime Minister Mark Carney about her concerns and requested a meeting with him. Her comments followed a report by Québecor media outlets alleging that American officials had attempted to negotiate directly with Quebec government officials over tariffs.
The premier did not provide additional details about the allegations but said the matter deserves serious attention. Federal Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand said Ottawa is taking the issue seriously and plans to speak with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio after reviewing the available evidence.
The concerns come during a Quebec election campaign in which Canada-U.S. trade tensions have already become a major issue. U.S. tariffs on Canadian goods have placed pressure on several Quebec industries, while Ottawa and Washington continue to negotiate over trade.
Fréchette has argued that Quebec needs to protect its businesses and workers from the economic uncertainty created by the ongoing trade dispute. Her position comes as political parties compete for voters ahead of the October election.
The possibility of U.S. involvement has also raised broader questions about the influence of foreign governments on Canadian elections. Fréchette emphasized that the decision over who governs Quebec belongs to Quebec voters.
The CAQ leader’s comments add another layer to an election campaign already shaped by debates over Quebec’s economy, relations with Ottawa, sovereignty and the province’s response to U.S. trade policies.
Quebec’s election is scheduled for October 5, 2026, when voters will choose representatives to the province’s National Assembly. The outcome will determine the next provincial government and the direction of Quebec’s policies on economic and intergovernmental affairs.
For now, federal officials say they will examine the allegations before drawing further conclusions, while Quebec political leaders continue campaigning amid heightened attention to Canada-U.S. relations.
Swifteradio.com
