Young voters in Quebec are grappling with the challenges of paying rent, affording groceries, and accessing healthcare as the province’s election campaign progresses. Despite these pressing concerns, there is a disconnect between young people and political parties, with many feeling unheard and skeptical of politicians’ actions.
Amy Giraldeau, a student at UQAM, expressed her disillusionment, stating, “I don’t feel seen in politics.” Similarly, Sofia Campeau from McGill University criticized politicians for talking without taking meaningful action. Lia Desiderato from CÉGEP Marie-Victorin highlighted the mismatch between politicians’ priorities and her values.
Historically, voter turnout among 18- to 24-year-olds in Quebec has been low, hovering around 50 percent in recent elections. Experts attribute this to a lack of trust in political parties rather than apathy. Erika De Torres of Apathy Is Boring emphasized the importance of politicians engaging with young people on issues that matter to them, such as the cost of living.
To address this disconnect, the Interjeunes Coalition has launched a youth mobilization campaign across the province to make young voices impossible to ignore for politicians. The campaign aims to not only spark interest in politics among youth but also hold politicians accountable for addressing their concerns.
As the Quebec election unfolds, economic uncertainty, exacerbated by the U.S. trade war, is a central theme. Young voters are particularly concerned about the rising cost of living and housing affordability. Elliot Lord from McGill University criticized anti-immigration stances as a solution to the housing crisis, emphasizing the need for more inclusive policies.
The lack of access to affordable healthcare was also highlighted by students like Campeau, who emphasized the financial burden of seeking private healthcare without a family doctor. Political analyst Daniel Tran noted that addressing affordability issues in this election could resonate with both young voters and the general population, bridging the gap between different demographics.
Tran also highlighted the challenge of balancing the needs of young people seeking entry-level jobs with the increasing automation of such positions due to advancements in artificial intelligence. The impact of automation on job prospects for students and the economy as a whole is a critical issue that political parties need to navigate carefully.
Keyphrase: Quebec election issues
