PQ Appoints First Candidate Without an Electoral District

Casey Halston

ago 2 hours

PQ Appoints First Candidate Without an Electoral District

In a significant move ahead of the 2026 general elections, the Parti québécois (PQ) has appointed Sandra Hernández as its first candidate lacking a designated electoral district. The party leader, Paul St-Pierre Plamondon, announced this development during a press conference at the party’s headquarters.

PQ’s Commitment to Diversity

St-Pierre Plamondon emphasized the importance of including candidates from diverse backgrounds. He revealed plans to introduce several more candidates with ties to immigration, reflecting a commitment to inclusivity within the party.

Sandra Hernández’s Profile

Name: Sandra Hernández
Background: Born in Longueuil, she has spent 15 years working with the United Nations.
Experience: Her career has taken her to various countries, including Colombia, Haiti, and Afghanistan.
Vision: She aims to contribute to making Quebec an independent nation.

Currently residing in Colombia, Hernández was welcomed to Quebec, where she plans to participate in the PQ’s orientation congress in Saint-Hyacinthe. The congress offers a chance to engage with district executives to find a suitable electoral district.

Challenges and Opportunities

While St-Pierre Plamondon believes in Hernández’s capabilities, he acknowledges the challenges of placing candidates without predetermined electoral districts. “There are more candidates than positions available,” he cautioned, highlighting the competitive nature of the upcoming elections.

A Message of Inclusion

St-Pierre Plamondon reiterated that the decision to introduce candidates without electoral districts is not about forcing nominations but rather highlighting qualified individuals. He expressed hope that these efforts will foster a sense of unity and cooperation among Quebec’s diverse population.

As the party prepares for the upcoming elections, the PQ aims to present candidates who embody the integration of various communities into the political landscape of Quebec. St-Pierre Plamondon’s approach seeks to reject community-based identities in favor of a collective Quebec identity.

Conclusion

The introduction of Sandra Hernández marks a pivotal moment for the Parti québécois as it advances towards the next election cycle. With a focus on diversity and inclusion, the party is poised to reshape its candidate lineup and appeal to a broader audience.