Gabriel Nadeau-Dubois, co-spokesperson for Québec solidaire (QS), expresses confidence in retaining two ridings in the Capitale-Nationale amid rising PQ support. At a recent event, QS introduced Ruba Ghazal as the incoming female co-spokesperson. Nadeau-Dubois underscored QS’s commitment to public transit and regional issues. Despite a recent poll indicating a decline in voting intentions, he highlights their historical contributions in Quebec City. Ghazal, of Palestinian descent, is expected to enhance political discussions, particularly on immigration.
Despite the rise in voting intentions for the PQ, Gabriel Nadeau-Dubois, co-spokesperson for Québec solidaire, remains confident about maintaining his two ridings in the Capitale-Nationale region.
On Thursday evening, approximately a hundred activists gathered in response to Québec solidaire’s invitation. This event also provided a platform to introduce Ruba Ghazal, who is set to be named the new female co-spokesperson in the upcoming weeks.
Among those present were MNA for Sainte-Marie-Saint-Jacques, Manon Massé, and other notable figures from Quebec ridings, including Sol Zanetti from Jean-Lesage and Étienne Grandmont from Taschereau.
“Residents of the Quebec City area have recognized Québec solidaire as a reliable voice in discussions about public transit. Who consistently championed the need for a modern public transit system in Quebec City and led the charge for the third link? It’s Étienne Grandmont, it’s Sol Zanetti, it’s Québec solidaire,” Nadeau-Dubois stated during a press scrum.
“People in the Quebec City region know us well,” he added. “Étienne and Sol have proven themselves, and our commitment to key issues affecting the Capitale-Nationale has remained steadfast. When it comes to advocating for Quebec City’s respect in the provincial parliament, it’s Sol and Étienne who take a stand, following in the footsteps of Catherine Dorion. We take pride in our achievements in the Quebec City area, and we are prepared to fight to retain these two seats and pursue additional ones.”
Facing Challenges
A recent Léger-Le Journal-TVA poll has shown QS in fourth place, with 14% of voting intentions—down 1% from their 2022 results.
If elections had occurred in October, QS might anticipate winning nine seats, which is two fewer than they currently hold, according to Qc 125. The riding of Jean-Lesage appears particularly vulnerable to the Parti Québécois, especially with the latter gaining traction in Taschereau.
Prior to the meeting, the government announced a hiring freeze in the public sector, prompting a strong response from Ghazal.
“This is extremely concerning. The CAQ government may avoid mentioning austerity or cuts, but we have witnessed their effects in CEGEPs, universities, schools, and now within the public service. It’s easy for the government to downplay these measures, but they are indeed implementing austerity, which will likely affect services to citizens,” she emphasized.
A Voice for Change
Ruba Ghazal, of Palestinian descent, moved to Quebec at the age of ten. Gabriel Nadeau-Dubois referred to her as “a model of integration” and “a product of Bill 101.”
As Nadeau-Dubois prepares for parental leave, Ghazal will have more opportunities to contribute to discussions at the National Assembly, which he believes will help elevate political discourse.
“She will challenge François Legault daily,” he remarked. “The debates in Quebec have been becoming increasingly hostile. With her unique background, she will significantly enhance the political conversation, particularly around immigration, bringing a perspective that has been sorely missing.”