Elections Québec 2026: Local candidates discuss priorities for the MRC Pontiac

Elections Québec 2026: Local candidates discuss priorities for the MRC Pontiac

With the 2026 Quebec provincial election approaching, CHIP 101.9 is speaking with candidates in the riding of Pontiac to inform listeners about their platforms and priorities.

The CHIP 101.9 newsroom spoke with three of the five candidates currently running in Pontiac. Each candidate was asked the same series of questions, including: What are your priorities for the MRC Pontiac?

First, Québec solidaire candidate Bianca Baldo, a jurist, public policy professional and community organizer based in Gatineau, spoke about her priorities for the region.

The newsroom also spoke with Coalition Avenir Québec candidate Mariana MeFleh, who has worked alongside Quebec government elected officials, where she focuses on strategic analysis, complex-issue management and public communications. MeFleh has served as political adviser to the MNA for Hull since February 2024. She also discussed her priorities for the region.

“Ms. Fréchettre has announced significant investments in infrastructure. Our infrastructure is becoming increasingly outdated, particularly in the MRC, and our plan allocates 180 billion for infrastructure in Quebec, with 75% earmarked for maintaining and improving existing infrastructure. We must also continue to invest in road safety, particularly in the MRC, where the needs are significant. We must also continue to expand cell phone coverage, as this remains a challenge. It is also a matter of safety for people who need to call emergency services. Another important issue in the MRC is agriculture. For the Prime Minister, this was a key campaign pledge, and it is important to me as well, since we know it is a driving force behind the Pontiac’s economy. We’ve announced significant measures for farmers facing economic uncertainty due to the United States. We’re providing an additional 56 million for the agricultural sector, and we plan to double funding for FIRA to support the next generation of farmers.”

CHIP 101.9 also interviewed André Fortin, the Quebec Liberal Party candidate and incumbent MNA for Pontiac. If re-elected, Fortin would begin a fourth term. He discussed his priorities for the riding, as well as work he says remains unfinished.

Each candidate was given the same opportunity to discuss their platform and priorities and to answer the same series of questions. Candidates were also given the option of responding in either French or English or both.

The CHIP 101.9 newsroom reached out to all five candidates in the riding. Conservative Party candidate Osmar Llanos Martinez has not yet responded to the newsroom’s request for an interview and Marcela Cazas, the Parti Québécois candidate, declined the interview request.

More details, as well as the full interviews, are available below:

André Fortin — Quebec Liberal Party candidate

Mariana MeFleh — Coalition Avenir Québec candidate (in french)

Bianca Baldo — Québec solidaire candidate