Montreal, Quebec – As the by-election in the Montreal riding of Outremont approaches, there is a noticeable absence of photos of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on campaign signs. This is a significant departure from previous elections, where the Liberal leader’s image was prominently displayed on signs throughout the city.
According to local campaign officials, the decision to not include Trudeau’s photo on signs was a strategic one. They believe that the focus should be on the local candidate, Rachel Bendayan, rather than the party leader. Bendayan, a former lawyer and community activist, is running for the Liberal Party in the by-election.
The absence of Trudeau’s photo on campaign signs has sparked speculation about his popularity and potential impact on the election. However, political analysts say that this move is not uncommon in by-elections, where the focus is on the local candidate rather than the party leader.
In an interview with CTV News, McGill University political science professor Daniel Béland stated, “By-elections are often seen as a referendum on the government, so it’s not surprising that the Liberals are trying to distance themselves from Trudeau’s image in this riding.”
Béland also noted that the Liberal Party is facing a tough battle in Outremont, as the riding has traditionally been a stronghold for the New Democratic Party (NDP). In the 2015 federal election, the NDP’s Thomas Mulcair won the riding with over 50% of the vote, while the Liberals came in third place.
The by-election in Outremont was triggered by the resignation of former NDP leader Mulcair, who held the seat for over a decade. The Liberals are hoping to capitalize on this opportunity to gain a foothold in the riding, which has been a Liberal stronghold in the past.
Despite the absence of Trudeau’s photo on campaign signs, the Liberal Party is confident in their candidate and their chances in the by-election. Bendayan has received endorsements from prominent Liberal figures, including Trudeau’s chief of staff, Katie Telford.
The by-election in Outremont will take place on February 25th, and the outcome will be closely watched as a potential indicator of the political climate in Quebec leading up to the federal election in October.
