Power & Politics Reporter Roundtable: The least boring byelections ever?
Apr 3, 2026
Joël‑Denis Bellavance, La Presse parliamentary bureau chief, on Quebec dynamics and regional campaigns. Rob Russo, The Economist Canada correspondent, on electoral math and public opinion in Quebec. Aaron Wherry, senior CBC political journalist, on federal strategy and campaign implications. They debate by-election stakes, possible shifts in committee control, Quebec’s political rebound, and the politics of a gas-tax cut.
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Majority Would Boost Control But Remain Fragile
- A Liberal majority would let Justin Trudeau move legislation and committees more smoothly, giving his government more control over timing and policy passage.
- Aaron Wherry warns a 173-seat majority is still fragile because resignations or shifts could quickly erode it.
Terrebonne Could Signal Federalist Momentum
- Terrebonne is up for grabs as Quebec Liberals rebound, potentially flipping a longtime separatist stronghold and signaling federalist momentum.
- Joël‑Denis Bellavance notes heavy Liberal ground game including multiple MP visits to support Tatiana Auguste.
Terrebonne Win Would Have National Unity Implications
- A Liberal win in Terrebonne would be symbolically important for national unity and could be spun as undermining the Parti Québécois' separatist momentum.
- Rob Russo and Joël‑Denis point out the riding's historical independence leanings and why a Liberal win would matter politically.