Opposition parties position themselves as checks on PQ minority government, especially on referendum

Quebec's newly strengthened opposition parties are preparing to assert influence over the incoming Parti Québécois minority government, particularly on the question of sovereignty.

The Liberal Party of Quebec doubled its seat count from 18 to 40 in Monday's election — a significant gain that positions it as a potential coalition partner or spoiler. Liberal leader Charles Milliard made clear the party's red line: "A minority government must listen and seek support. It must take into account the Quebecers who made a different choice." Milliard emphasized that the Liberals will "always oppose a referendum."

The Conservative Party of Quebec, led by Éric Duhaime, won 19 seats — its first significant breakthrough. Duhaime said Conservatives would act as a "watchdog" in the National Assembly. "I think Quebecers conferred upon us an important mandate yesterday," he said Tuesday.

Québec solidaire, co-led by Ruba Ghazal, won nine seats. Ghazal said the party's role is "to be their voice in the Parliament" — a reference to marginalized communities and progressive causes.

Political analyst Daniel Tran said the balance of power will shift depending on the issue. "The balance of power will be really on a case-by-case, depending on the dossiers," Tran said. The Liberals and Conservatives have different priorities and governing philosophies, limiting their ability to form a stable unified opposition.

Milliard indicated the Liberals' task extends beyond immediate scrutiny. "Not only to consolidate the team, but at the same time prepare for the possible next election and the possible next battle against referendum," Tran said, describing the opposition's strategic thinking.

St-Pierre Plamondon acknowledged the reality of minority governance in his victory speech Monday. "I believe there are good ideas within every political party in Quebec," he said, and pledged to work with other parties. He added: "We will work to ensure the budget reflects elements of the other parties' election platforms, so that we can collaborate on a workable budgetary framework."

The PQ's need for opposition support will determine what legislation actually passes — a constraint that will shape the next chapter of Quebec politics.