Federal minister says Quebecers reject referendums, eyes federal-provincial cooperation
Canadian Identity and Culture Minister Marc Miller, a Montreal Liberal MP, said voters want governments working together, not divisive independence votes, as Ottawa prepares for a potential PQ win.
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Federal Canadian Identity and Culture Minister Marc Miller said Thursday that Quebecers oppose referendums, signalling Ottawa's readiness to work with whatever government emerges from the October 5 election.
Miller, Liberal MP for Ville-Marie-Le-Sud-Ouest-Île-des-Soeurs in Montreal, told reporters he is preparing for "all possibilities." "I think what we're hearing from Quebecers is that they want the different levels of government to work together. That's why they hate the idea of a referendum—because it's immensely divisive and highly emotional," Miller said.
The minister plans to vote for Quebec Liberal Party candidate Jennifer Maccarone in Westmount-Saint-Louis. While Miller said he has "no close ties to the Quebec Liberal Party," he noted previous professional collaboration with CAQ immigration minister nominee, saying "we didn't always see eye to eye, but she's a very hard worker."
As advanced voting begins this weekend, Miller's remarks underline the federal government's intent to negotiate with a PQ-led government should one result from the election—while also floating the idea that Quebec voters themselves are signalling fatigue with sovereignty debates.
The facts
When is the Quebec election?
The Quebec election is on October 5, 2026.
What does Marc Miller say Quebecers want from government?
Marc Miller says Quebecers want the different levels of government to work together rather than pursue divisive independence referendums.
Which Quebec candidate will Marc Miller vote for?
Marc Miller plans to vote for Quebec Liberal Party candidate Jennifer Maccarone in Westmount-Saint-Louis.
