An investigation commissioned by the Quebec Liberal Party (PLQ) has concluded that alleged text messages suggesting members were paid to vote for Pablo Rodriguez in the last leadership race were a “montage” of other messages.
The text messages, which referenced “brownies” and were at the center of a Nov. 19, 2025, Journal de Montréal article, raised questions about their authenticity and veracity within the party.
Retired judge Jacques R. Fournier confirmed that the messages were likely a concoction, citing the lack of clear dates and origins. The 39-page report, released recently, shed light on the uncertainty surrounding the messages and their relevance to the leadership race.
While the report could not definitively determine if vote-buying occurred, it cleared Rodriguez of any involvement in the alleged “brownie” payments until prompted by the media. Rodriguez resigned as leader following allegations and consistently denied any wrongdoing.
The investigation also found no evidence linking two Quebec MNAs, Sona Lakhoyan Olivier and Alice Abou-Khalil, to the allegations. Both politicians swiftly refuted any involvement when their names were mentioned in connection with the text messages.
