Former La Presse columnist Vincent Marissal announced on Monday that he will contest the Taschereau riding for the Parti Québécois, leaving the Rosemont electoral district where he previously sought office. The shift was made public at 19:36 GMT on 24 August 2026 and comes as the provincial election approaches.
Marissal, who spent several years writing for the daily newspaper before entering politics, had most recently sat as an independent member after breaking with his former party. His decision to run under the Parti Québécois banner in Taschereau marks a new chapter in his political career, aligning him once again with a party structure.
The Taschereau riding, located in the province of Quebec, will see Marissal replace the incumbent candidate from his former district of Rosemont. No additional candidates have been named for the Taschereau contest at this stage, and the Parti Québécois has not released further details about its campaign strategy in the area.
Marissal’s move follows a pattern of politicians adjusting their electoral bases ahead of elections, seeking constituencies where they believe they have stronger support or where party needs are greatest. The timing of the announcement, less than a month before the scheduled vote, gives the Parti Québécois limited time to organize a campaign in the new riding.
Observers note that Marissal’s background in journalism may influence his approach to campaigning and public communication. His prior role at La Presse provided him with experience in media and public discourse, which could be leveraged in his new candidacy.
The upcoming provincial election is set to determine the composition of Quebec’s legislative assembly, and the Taschereau riding will be one of many contested seats. Voters in the district will now consider Marissal’s record as an independent and his recent affiliation with the Parti Québécois as they decide at the ballot box.
The Parti Québécois has not issued a detailed statement regarding Marissal’s candidacy beyond confirming his inclusion on the party’s slate for Taschereau. Election officials have yet to release the final list of registered candidates for the riding.