Michel Leblanc, former chamber of commerce chief, confirmed as Quebec Liberal candidate in Marguerite-Bourgeoys
The economist will run in a riding the Liberals have held since 1966, weeks before the October 5 provincial election.
The day's top stories, food & events — every morning at 7. Unsubscribe anytime.
Michel Leblanc, who spent 16 years leading the Chambre de commerce du Montréal métropolitain, will run for the Quebec Liberal Party in the Marguerite-Bourgeoys riding, Liberal Leader Charles Milliard confirmed Wednesday, August 5.
Leblanc, 63, steps into electoral politics after a one-year career break. Milliard called his arrival "an announcement with a strong economic focus" and described him as a "train conductor" for Quebec's economy. Leblanc holds degrees in economics from the University of Montreal and has worked at the Department of Finance Canada, the Institute for Research on Public Policy, and as a consultant.
The riding in southwest Montreal has been Liberal territory since its creation in 1966. Current MP Frédéric Beauchemin is running for re-election in Brome-Missisquoi in the Estrie region, opening the seat. Leblanc becomes the 84th confirmed candidate for the PLQ ahead of the official campaign start in late August.
Leblanc presented himself as an economist attuned to solidarity. "I believe that the plan we have in mind — to help Quebecers and Quebec as a whole become more prosperous and feel more confident about the economic future — will also require ensuring that this is done fairly and with solidarity within the community," he said.
His candidacy was leaked to media outlets Tuesday before the official announcement. He has repeatedly criticized the CAQ government's immigration policies and was previously mentioned as a potential mayoral candidate for Montreal. Former Liberal Finance Ministers Raymond Bachand and Monique Jérôme-Forget, who represents Marguerite-Bourgeoys from 1998 to 2009, attended Wednesday's event.
The Parti Québécois also confirmed its candidate for Marguerite-Bourgeoys on Wednesday: Luc Côté, a former public relations officer for the City of Montreal and Canadian Armed Forces member. The PQ describes Côté as someone well-versed in Montreal's diversity and calls for stronger government action on French language protection.
What are Leblanc's specific platform positions on economic policy beyond the solidarity framing?
Will Milliard comment on whether Leblanc could serve as finance or economy minister if the Liberals win?
We'll update this story as answers emerge.
The facts
Who is the Quebec Liberal candidate in Marguerite-Bourgeoys?
Michel Leblanc, a 63-year-old economist who led the Chambre de commerce du Montréal métropolitain for 16 years, is the Quebec Liberal candidate in Marguerite-Bourgeoys.
How long has the Liberals held the Marguerite-Bourgeoys riding?
The Quebec Liberal Party has held Marguerite-Bourgeoys since 1966, when the riding was created.
When is the Quebec provincial election?
The Quebec provincial election is scheduled for October 5, 2026.
Who is the Parti Québécois candidate in Marguerite-Bourgeoys?
Luc Côté, a former public relations officer for the City of Montreal and Canadian Armed Forces member, is the Parti Québécois candidate in Marguerite-Bourgeoys.
