Governor General doubts the PQ can abolish the monarchy in Quebec. Liberal leader Milliard offers no gifts, but is open to electoral reform
Governor General Louise Arbour said on Thursday that people say a lot of things during election campaigns, and expressed doubt that Parti Québécois leader Paul St-Pierre Plamondon can abolish the monarchy in Quebec, according to Radio-Canada. Separately, Quebec Liberal leader Charles Milliard told reporters his party will not make gifts to the PQ and that Mr. St-Pierre Plamondon must demonstrate that he deserves its collaboration, Le Devoir reported. Radio-Canada reported that Mr. Milliard recognizes some distortions created by the current voting system and does not close the door on electoral reform. The PQ won 59 of the 127 seats in the Oct. 5 election and needs 64 for a majority, as earlier DailyDrop editions reported.
A minority PQ government can pass little without Liberal or other votes, so Mr. Milliard's tone sets the limits. Changing the Crown's role also touches the Constitution, which is not a decision one province makes alone.
No immediate change in your life. The effects arrive through budget votes, a possible bill on the oath to the King and any move on how Quebec elects its members.
The PQ has a mandate, and voters knew its position on the Crown. A symbolic break is a modest first step.
A minority government with a record-low winning vote share has a thin claim to constitutional change, and the Governor General's doubt reflects the legal reality.
Watch for a PQ bill on the oath and which party signals support. A Liberal willingness to talk about electoral reform is the more interesting opening.
DailyDrop Canada edition No. 5 · Morning · FRI., OCT. 9, 2026