Residents in over 1,100 municipalities throughout Quebec participated in selecting their local leaders this weekend. Here are some key takeaways from the outcomes of the province’s municipal elections.
Montreal Embraces Change:
Following eight years under the leadership of outgoing Mayor Valérie Plante, Montrealers have opted for a new direction by electing centrist candidate Soraya Martinez Ferrada as their new mayor. Martinez Ferrada, a former Chilean refugee who previously served in ex-Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s cabinet, secured 43% of the vote, surpassing Plante’s party leader, Luc Rabouin, who garnered 36%. Martinez Ferrada’s plans include a four-year timeline to address tent cities across the island and a review of the city’s bike lane network to alleviate existing challenges faced by residents, businesses, and motorists. Beyond Martinez Ferrada’s victory, the significant support for other mayoral candidates Gilbert Thibodeau and Craig Sauvé signals a desire for change among voters dissatisfied with the dominant parties.
Quebec City Backs Bruno Marchand:
In Quebec City, Bruno Marchand, who previously won by a slim margin in 2021, secured over 49% of the vote in the recent election, outpacing his nearest competitor, Stéphane Lachance, by a significant margin. Marchand’s victory reflects the city’s enthusiasm for a tramway project, a key public transit initiative that has faced obstacles in the past. Marchand emphasizes the importance of uniting the city’s residents to tackle ongoing challenges effectively.
Former Federal Politicians Step into Municipal Roles:
Aside from Soraya Martinez Ferrada, other former federal cabinet members have transitioned into mayoral roles in Quebec. Marie-Claude Bibeau, with past portfolios in national revenue, agriculture, and international development, secured the position of mayor in Sherbrooke. Similarly, Steven Blaney, a former Conservative minister, was elected mayor of Lévis, while Guy Caron, an ex-NDP MP, won re-election as mayor of Rimouski.
Yves Lévesque’s Dual Triumph:
Yves Lévesque, who previously served as the mayor of Trois-Rivières, has now been elected as the mayor of Shawinigan, marking a notable transition. Despite facing health challenges and unsuccessful federal election bids, Lévesque’s resounding victory highlights his enduring popularity and support among voters.
