The recent Léger survey reveals that most Québécois prefer service cuts to tax increases as a strategy to address the province’s significant deficit. With a budget shortfall of $13 billion looming, Finance Minister Eric Girard faces tough decisions ahead.
Survey Insights on Public Opinion
According to the survey conducted from February 27 to March 2, 2026, 61% of participants support service reductions to avoid further tax burdens. In contrast, only 14% of respondents would opt for higher taxes to maintain existing services.
- 61% support service cuts to manage public finances.
- 14% favor tax increases to sustain current service levels.
- 26% chose not to express a preference on the matter.
Public Sentiment Towards Government Performance
The survey indicates a broader dissatisfaction with the current government. A striking 72% of voters desire a change in leadership, indicating that many feel the province is headed in the wrong direction. Notably, 74% of respondents believe that Quebec is not doing well under the Legault administration, which has been in power for eight years.
Among those surveyed, 54% of even the governing Coalition Avenir Québec (CAQ) supporters expressed discontent, highlighting significant unrest within the party’s base.
Key Issues for Electorate
As the next elections approach, priorities for voters are becoming evident. A quarter of respondents (25%) emphasize the need for reform in health and social services, while other pressing issues include:
- Cost of living (16%)
- Access to housing (11%)
- Immigration (8%)
- Identity concerns (2%)
- Transportation (2%)
- Public safety (1%)
These insights offer critical guidance for political parties aiming to connect with voters ahead of the elections. The current calls for change resonate strongly, and any strategy to address the deficit must align with public sentiment.
Methodology of the Survey
The Léger survey included responses from 1,041 individuals aged 18 and older. The findings have been weighted to represent the Quebec population accurately. The margin of error for a probabilistic sample of this size is approximately ±3.04%, with a confidence level of 95%.
