When the Québec Liberal Party (QPL) leadership race was mooted a few months ago, few observers expected it to be an exciting contest. Yet, against all odds, the momentum seems to be building, promising exciting months ahead. Québec's political landscape has been electrified since Denis Coderre, the former federal minister and ex-mayor of Montreal, officially announced his candidacy on June 21, after a long period of uncertainty.
Denis Coderre is charismatic and renowned for his skill in drawing media attention, but has no deep roots within the QPL. This lack of a historical anchor in the party is causing reluctance among the Liberal establishment, who seem to be looking for another leader to rekindle the party's flame.
One potential candidate who is beginning to make a name for himself is Charles Milliard, former CEO of the Fédération des Chambres de commerce du Québec. Having left his post at the beginning of July to gauge his support, this forty-something former executive and pharmacist has a long history of activism in the QPL. Charles Milliard's background in business and his alignment with the party's traditional values have won him the support of younger activists, who see in him the future of the party. His experience and economic vision could well work in his favor to modernize and revitalize the QPL.
At the same time, Frédéric Beauchemin, a current Member of the National Assembly, is still keeping his anticipated candidacy under wraps. The recent resignation of the President of the Youth Commission, who decided to support him, reinforces speculation about his participation. Frédéric Beauchemin advocates a prudent fiscal policy and enjoys the strategic advantage of already being a member of the caucus, which could make it easier for him to rally his fellow MNAs.
Antoine Tardif, mayor of Victoriaville, is another name that keeps circulating. Aged just 34, Tardif has an impressive track record. Elected as one of Québec's youngest mayors in 2013, he was also the Conservative Party of Canada's chief organizer for Québec, and shone in the Québec Major Junior Hockey League as a goalie. His ability to represent the regions, a sector where the QPL must regain ground, is a major asset to his candidacy.
Clearly this leadership race, initially deemed uninteresting, is taking an unexpected and captivating turn. The Québec Liberal Party, struggling to regain its lustre since its defeat in 2018, faces a unique opportunity to reinvent its leadership and reconnect with its voters. The next few months promise to be decisive for the future of Québec's great historic party. The race is on, and promises to be full of twists and turns. The next leader will be elected on June 14.
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