Karl Blackburn announces he will not pursue leadership of the Quebec Liberal Party (PLQ) once more.
Blackburn, the former president of the employers’ council, revealed his decision on Friday afternoon, stating that he has opted to focus on his professional projects and family instead. Despite recent expressions of interest in a potential future race, he has chosen to step back from the leadership opportunity.
In an interview with RDI, Blackburn emphasized the importance of unity within the PLQ, calling on activists and Quebecers to come together in preparation for the upcoming general election. This development comes as the party seeks a new leader following the resignation of Pablo Rodriguez due to allegations surrounding his leadership campaign financing.
Charles Milliard, the runner-up in the previous leadership race, is currently weighing his options regarding a potential leadership bid.
Meanwhile, Marc Tanguay, the member for LaFontaine, is once again assuming the role of interim leader until a permanent successor is chosen. Tanguay, who previously held the position between the terms of Dominique Anglade and Pablo Rodriguez, is seen as a respected and capable leader within the Liberal caucus.
Rafael P. Ferraro, the president of the PLQ, commended Tanguay’s sense of responsibility and leadership qualities, noting that he is well-equipped to steer the party towards stability and future progress.
Tanguay expressed his gratitude for the support of his caucus colleagues and the party’s executive council, stressing the need for the PLQ to reestablish its effectiveness and embody a vision of advancement.
With the October 2026 elections on the horizon, the PLQ faces the task of swiftly selecting a new leader to ensure readiness for the upcoming electoral contest. The party’s executive council is expected to convene in the near future to outline the process for choosing Rodriguez’s successor.
