The Quebec Solidaire Congress was a veritable flood of surprises. At the top of the bill is the brilliant election of Émilise Lessard-Therrien as co-spokesperson of QS alongside Gabriel Nadeau-Dubois.
A resounding victory that toppled two elected representatives, Ruba Ghazal and Christine Labrie, and surprised everyone.
Wonder
Émilise Lessard-Therrien’s masterstroke among the Quebec Solidaire activists to convince them to count her among their opponents despite her unelected status represents a political miracle. Let us remember that she suffered an electoral setback that, whether it Like it or not, it symbolizes a turning point for the party as it has lost a constituency for the first time in its history.
But that’s not all. The big favorite Christine Labrie, who is favored by observers and analysts, was eliminated in the first round, contrary to all prevailing predictions. A political slap in the face that left everyone perplexed.
She managed to put the rural issue at the center of a party that is firmly rooted in urban areas and defies established conventions.
GND the Almighty
As for Gabriel Nadeau-Dubois, despite Ms. Lessard-Therrien’s victory, he is the big winner of this conference. Arriving in Gatineau weakened, he leaves strong, steadfast and supported by an overwhelming 90% majority in this vote of confidence, which is unusual to say the least.
With a newly elected co-speaker, who will not, however, take over the presidency of the parliament, the GND has consolidated its position without the slightest challenge. His influence on the caucus and its leadership has never been greater.
Ms. Lessard-Therrien will head to Quebec to spread ideas of solidarity, rebuild the party, organize fundraisers and gather volunteers. During this time, Mr Nadeau-Dubois can devote himself to what he really loves: debating, criticizing the government and its political opponents and leading parliamentary leadership.
And the icing on the cake: the two co-speakers of Québec Solidaire are in their thirties. A real generational shift is beginning and could trigger a serious political trend that could have serious consequences.
