Quebecers Show Support for Blue Jays Amid Changing Political Sentiments

In an unexpected turn of events, many Quebec residents are rallying behind the Toronto Blue Jays, even as nostalgia for the Montreal Expos lingers. This support is particularly notable for players like Vladimir Guerrero Jr., who hails from Montreal. The enthusiasm for the Blue Jays coincides with a broader political landscape in Quebec, where a majority of ridings elected Liberal MPs in the recent federal election, despite Prime Minister Mark Carney's struggles with the French language.

This shift raises questions about Quebec's identity and its relationship with Canada. For decades, the question of what Quebec wants has puzzled English-Canadian politicians and intellectuals. After failed constitutional negotiations in the 1980s and 1990s, the sentiment shifted to indifference. However, recent public opinion surveys reveal a clearer picture of Quebecers' expectations from their leaders and their views on Canadian unity.

A recent Leger poll indicates that only 24% of Quebecers support another referendum on independence before 2030, as proposed by Parti Québecois Leader Paul St-Pierre Plamondon. If a referendum were held, 65% of respondents would vote against independence. This marks a significant decline in support for separation compared to the 1980 referendum.

When asked to choose between Quebec becoming an independent country or signing the Constitution Act of 1982, which Quebec never approved, 55% favored the latter. This suggests a desire among Quebecers to resolve tensions between French and English Canadians. Recent geopolitical events may have shifted priorities, leading many to view historical disputes as less significant.

Another survey by SOM highlights that sovereignty is not a pressing concern for Quebec voters. Only 3% identified independence as a top issue for the provincial government, while 69% prioritized health care, 49% housing, and 43% education. Like their fellow Canadians, Quebecers are focused on everyday issues.

The desire for change is evident, with 74% of Quebecers wanting Premier François Legault to step down before the next election. Only 16% support him running for re-election. In response, Legault has attempted to reconnect with voters through populist initiatives, such as banning street prayers and restricting religious symbols for daycare workers. Approximately 60% of Quebecers support these measures, despite concerns that they address non-existent problems.

The provincial government is likely to invoke the Constitution's notwithstanding clause to shield these new laws from legal challenges. Public sentiment regarding minority rights, particularly concerning Islam, appears to be largely indifferent.

Regarding Quebec's identity within Canada, a Leger poll found that 86% of francophone Quebecers identify as at least somewhat Canadian. Data from the Environics Institute also suggest a slight positive shift in Quebecers' attitudes toward Canada in recent years. However, this sentiment should not be overstated, as Quebecers remain strongly nationalistic, and tensions could easily resurface.

As the next provincial election approaches, the political landscape remains dynamic, with the potential for a separatist government if current trends continue. The evolving relationship between Quebec and Canada continues to be a topic of significant interest and debate.