Quebec parties face questions over possible alliances

Parti Québécois Leader Paul StPierre Plamondon said he is not considering an alliance with the Quebec Conservative Party or any other party as the province heads into the final stretch of the election campaign. The comments came after Coalition Avenir Québec Leader Christine Fréchette repeated claims that the PQ and the Conservatives share similar ideas on issues such as economic austerity. She also described StPierre Plamondon as leading a “conservative Parti Québécois.” Fréchette did not directly say whether she would support any alliance, but argued that Quebec voters do not want a sovereignty referendum. The PQ continues to lead in opinion surveys, although poll projections suggest a minority government remains the most likely outcome. Liberal Leader Charles Milliard said he is focused on winning rather than aligning with rival parties.