Québec Solidaire has ousted Vincent Marissal from its caucus, although Marissal claims the decision to leave was his own. Speaking to the press on Saturday morning, Marissal stated that he had already made a definitive choice to depart from the party and had intended to make a formal announcement the following Wednesday. Describing his situation as one of ongoing distress, he emphasized, “They are expelling someone who has left. I have been suffering for some time now.”
A news release issued by Québec Solidaire (QS) before Marissal’s declaration disclosed that the party’s Member of the National Assembly (MNA) for the Rosemont riding had initiated talks with Paul St-Pierre Plamondon, leader of the Parti Québécois (PQ), with the intention of contesting the 2026 provincial election under the PQ banner. The release from Québec Solidaire stated, “According to our information, these discussions have been ongoing for several weeks, and negotiations with the Parti Québécois were nearing completion.”
Expressing their dismay over the situation, both QS co-spokespersons Ruba Ghazal and Sol Zanetti conveyed a profound sense of betrayal during a press briefing on Saturday afternoon. Ghazal likened the experience to being deceived by a partner, remarking, “It’s like being cheated on by your spouse, it’s horrible.” Zanetti, on the other hand, extended apologies to the constituents in Rosemont who had twice voted for a Québec Solidaire candidate, acknowledging their disappointment.
Marissal confirmed his interactions with St-Pierre Plamondon but clarified that he would function as an independent entity “until further notice.” While expressing his stance against the Liberals and the Coalition Avenir Québec (CAQ), he refrained from explicitly indicating his potential affiliation with the Parti Québécois. In a critical tone, Marissal highlighted several points of contention with QS, citing significant disparities between the caucus and the party’s activist base, as well as fundamental disagreements with the current leadership.
Moreover, Marissal criticized QS’s response to the recent Montreal transit strikes, labeling it as “strictly unionist.” He criticized the party’s decision to oppose a bill aimed at expediting legislation that would have compelled striking workers back to work. Marissal also cited other factors contributing to his departure, including disagreements with the party’s handling of certain statements and issues within the National Assembly.
In response to the criticism, Ghazal defended the party’s unity and direction, emphasizing the party’s commitment to progressive values and the welfare of the people. Zanetti stressed the importance of respectful and ethical conduct in changing political affiliations, a standard he felt Marissal had failed to adhere to. Marissal, who has served as the MNA for Rosemont under Québec Solidaire since 2018, indicated his decision to step back temporarily.
Plamondon acknowledged Marissal’s discomfort within QS and clarified that no specific agreements had been reached with the Parti Québécois at the time. Expressing a willingness to engage in ongoing discussions, Plamondon acknowledged Marissal’s desire to continue his political service.