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Boulerice Considers Shift to Quebec Provincial Politics

  //politics-government.news-articles.net/content/ .. nsiders-shift-to-quebec-provincial-politics.html
  Published in Politics and Government on Monday, February 23rd 2026 at 21:22 GMT by Toronto Star
      Locales: Quebec, CANADA

Montreal, Quebec - February 24th, 2026 - Alexandre Boulerice, the New Democratic Party's sole representative in Quebec's federal Parliament, is seriously contemplating a shift to provincial politics. The long-time MP for Montreal-Rosemont-La Petite-Patrie revealed Monday that he is considering a run in the upcoming Quebec provincial election, expected this fall. This potential move would not only reshape the political landscape in Quebec but also necessitate a federal by-election in his currently held riding.

Boulerice, who has served as MP since 2004, stated he has been approached by the Quebec NDP to become a candidate in the provincial contest. While he hasn't formally committed, he emphasized the seriousness of his deliberations. "I haven't made a decision yet, but I'm seriously considering it," Boulerice said, hinting at a growing desire to focus on domestic Quebec issues and contribute to policy at the provincial level.

The motivation behind this potential move, according to Boulerice, is a deep-rooted connection to his community. "There's a lot I can do at the provincial level," he explained. "It's where I grew up. It's where my family is. I feel a responsibility to contribute to my community." This sentiment underscores a desire to address concerns closer to home, suggesting a belief that provincial governance offers a more direct pathway to impactful local change.

Federal NDP Faces Uphill Battle The loss of Boulerice would be a significant blow to the federal NDP, already struggling to establish a strong foothold in Quebec. Holding only one seat in the province, the party has faced consistent difficulties in breaking through with Quebec voters. A by-election in Montreal-Rosemont-La Petite-Patrie would present a considerable challenge, forcing the NDP to defend a riding it has continuously held for over two decades. While Boulerice's personal popularity undoubtedly boosts the NDP's chances, the party would still need to mount a robust campaign to retain the seat. Political analysts suggest a loss could further marginalize the federal NDP in Quebec and hamper its ability to attract future candidates.

Provincial NDP Sees Opportunity in Shifting Sands

The Quebec NDP, however, views Boulerice's potential candidacy as a valuable asset. The party believes it can capitalize on growing dissatisfaction with the current governing Coalition Avenir Quebec (CAQ) led by Premier Francois Legault, and the struggling Liberal party, the official opposition. Recent polling data indicates a softening of support for the CAQ, fuelled by concerns over cost of living, healthcare, and environmental policy. The Liberals, meanwhile, are struggling to redefine their identity and appeal to younger voters.

Boulerice's presence on the ballot could attract progressive voters disillusioned with both major parties, offering the NDP a pathway to increased representation at the provincial level. His established name recognition and reputation as a consistent advocate for social justice could prove to be a significant advantage, particularly in a riding known for its progressive leanings. However, he would face a well-funded and organized CAQ campaign, as well as the established infrastructure of the Liberal party.

Legault Shuffles Cabinet Amidst Political Currents The timing of Boulerice's potential move coincides with a recent cabinet shuffle by Premier Legault. Marguerite Blais was appointed as Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing on Monday, a move widely interpreted as an attempt to address growing concerns about affordable housing and municipal infrastructure. This shuffle signals that the CAQ is aware of the challenges facing the province and is attempting to proactively address them.

The appointment of Blais, a veteran politician with a focus on social issues, is seen as an attempt to soften the CAQ's image and appeal to a broader range of voters. However, critics argue that the changes are merely cosmetic and do not address the fundamental issues facing Quebec.

Decision Imminent

Boulerice has indicated he intends to reach a final decision within the next few weeks. His choice will undoubtedly have ripple effects across the Quebec political landscape, potentially triggering a federal by-election and significantly altering the dynamics of the upcoming provincial campaign. The coming weeks will be crucial as Boulerice weighs his options and considers the potential impact of his decision on both the federal and provincial New Democratic parties, as well as his constituents in Montreal-Rosemont-La Petite-Patrie.