Quebec campaign shifts into high gear with first leadership debate

MONTREAL--Quebec's provincial election campaign enters a new phase today with the first in a string of televised leadership debates.

Tonight is the first of four debates in four consecutive nights, giving voters a chance to better weigh their options in the Sept. 4 election.

A successful showing in the four-person debate by Parti Quebecois Leader Pauline Marois could help solidify her lead over the competition.

Opinion polls have her party solidly ahead of the Charest Liberals and the new Coalition for Quebec's Future.

But a strong showing by Premier Jean Charest or Coalition head Francois Legault could have a major impact on the final results.

Francoise David, co-spokesperson for the social-democratic Quebec solidaire, will also take part.

Three one-on-one debates are scheduled for Monday through Wednesday, featuring face-offs between Charest, Legault, and Marois.

 

Tonight's debate starts at 8:00 p.m. on Radio-Canada. No English debates are planned.

• 

  Quebec Opposition Leader Pauline Marois, left, and Premier Jean Charest greet each other as the fall session is about to wrap up Friday, December 9, 2011 at the legislature in Quebec City. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jacques Boissinot