Conservatives Surge in Quebec Byelection: Duhaime Eyes Historic Win

UPDATE: A major political shift is imminent in Quebec as Éric Duhaime, leader of the Conservative Party, stands on the brink of a historic byelection victory in Arthabaska. With voting set for Monday, August 7, 2025, Duhaime could become the first Conservative elected in the province’s legislature in 90 years.

Duhaime, a controversial figure known for his opposition to pandemic restrictions and his radical stance on carbon pricing, is locked in a close race against the Parti Québécois (PQ). Polls indicate both candidates are tied at 37% support, while the ruling Coalition Avenir Québec (CAQ) trails significantly at 9%.

For Duhaime, this byelection represents a pivotal moment. “It could be a huge breakthrough,” he stated, underscoring the potential for his party to alter the political landscape of Quebec and provide a true Conservative voice within the national assembly.

The political stakes are considerably high for the CAQ, led by Premier François Legault. The party has dominated the riding in past elections, winning over 50% of the vote previously. However, widespread discontent with the CAQ government suggests that Duhaime’s rise could signal an impending shift in voter sentiment.

Political analysts describe the race as a referendum on Duhaime himself. “It’s really about whether to give Éric Duhaime a chance or to reject him,” said Alain Rayes, a former Conservative MP. This dynamic reflects a growing divide among voters, with some rallying behind the Conservative leader while others prefer to strategically vote against him.

The PQ, represented by candidate Alex Boissonneault, is also banking on discontent with the CAQ. “People are extremely disappointed with the CAQ government,” Boissonneault said, emphasizing that his party is gaining traction as a viable alternative.

As the campaign progresses, local issues have taken a back seat to the personalities involved, intensifying the urgency of this byelection. Duhaime’s recent calls for the abolition of Quebec’s carbon-pricing system, following the federal government’s decision to scrap its own carbon levy, have further set him apart from other parties.

Should Duhaime secure a seat, it would symbolize a significant re-emergence of Conservative politics in Quebec, challenging the long-standing dominance of the Liberals and the PQ. Conversely, a loss could severely hinder his political future, as Rayes warned, saying, “It’s going to be more and more difficult for him” if he fails to win.

The riding of Arthabaska is a largely agricultural area, and its voters previously gave the Conservatives nearly 25% support in the last provincial election. As Duhaime gears up for the byelection, he emphasizes that his party represents a significant portion of the population yearning for change. “We’re representing a huge percentage of the population and at least we’re going to have a voice,” he stated.

As the clock ticks down to the byelection, all eyes are on Arthabaska. With potential ramifications for the broader political landscape in Quebec and Canada, this contest is shaping up to be one of the most consequential in recent memory. Stay tuned for updates as results come in!