Isabelle Blais has officially become the candidate for the Parti Québécois (PQ) in the Maskinongé riding for the upcoming provincial elections. These elections are scheduled to take place on October 5, 2026, in the Mauricie region of Quebec.
Candidate Selection and Background
The 51-year-old actress and singer-songwriter announced her intent to run for the PQ earlier this month. Blais received strong support, securing 63% of votes from party members during the selection process last Sunday.
In her statement, Blais expressed her pride in representing her home region, emphasizing her deep connections to Maskinongé. She stated, “This is where my roots are, and I feel at home here.” Blais is committed to advocating for key issues, including education, healthcare, and local support for businesses and agriculture.
Party Support and Vision
Paul St-Pierre Plamondon, leader of the PQ, praised Blais’s victory, highlighting her as part of a new generation of artists motivated by their convictions. He described her as an “independentist, feminist, and lover of Quebec culture,” emphasizing that her contribution to the party would be significant.
Political Landscape in Maskinongé
- The Maskinongé riding has been held by CAQ member Simon Allaire since 2018.
- In the 2022 elections, the PQ’s Dominique Gélinas placed third, garnering 14.1% of the votes.
- Winning candidate Allaire received 53.5%, while Serge Noël from the Conservative Party of Quebec obtained 16.1%.
As the PQ aims to strengthen its presence in Maskinongé, Blais’s candidacy marks a significant step in their efforts leading up to the 2026 elections. Her dedication to local issues and the independence of Quebec will be central to her campaign strategy.
