The electoral landscape in Quebec is undergoing a significant transformation that could impact political representation for hundreds of thousands of citizens. The Quebec Electoral Commission (Élections Québec) has released its updated political map for 2026, with projections pointing to the elimination or major redrawing of certain ridings—particularly in Montreal and the Gaspésie region. These changes address population shifts and representation inequalities, but they are stirring debate across the province surrounding accessibility, community identity, and fair representation.
Population growth in urban areas like Montreal’s suburbs and demographic decline in remote regions like the Gaspé Peninsula have pushed the need to realign riding borders. As a result, ridings with slower population growth or sustained out-migration may be consolidated or removed, while areas with increasing populations may be subdivided to ensure parity in voter-to-MNA ratio. This plan, if approved, will be implemented in time for the 2026 Quebec general election.
Key changes to Quebec’s electoral map
| Region | Status | Key Changes |
|---|---|---|
| Montreal (Urban Core) | At Risk | Ridings like Anjou–Louis-Riel could disappear or merge |
| Gaspésie | Under Review | Gaspé and Bonaventure ridings may be consolidated |
| Montérégie, Laval | Expansion | New ridings to reflect population increase |
| Quebec City (Outskirts) | Minor Adjustments | Border tweaks to balance populations |
What changed this year
The electoral boundaries of Quebec are evaluated roughly every 10 years to ensure parity in voter representation, as required under provincial electoral law. The most recent review, led by Élections Québec, has taken into account demographic trends, migration patterns, and feedback from both the public and political parties. Shifting population densities across the province have forced the commission to propose a new map with major changes in two principal areas: **Montreal** and **Gaspésie**.
In Montreal, inner-city ridings have witnessed either stagnant or declining populations, making them less representative per capita compared to booming suburban ridings in surrounding municipalities. Conversely, in Gaspésie, long-term population loss and aging demographics triggered proposals to merge existing ridings into larger constituencies. These proposed transformations are not only logistical but also culturally and emotionally significant for affected communities.
Ridings at risk of disappearance or merger
Among the most talked-about changes is the **potential consolidation of Anjou–Louis-Riel**, a central Montreal riding with a steadily declining population. This riding may be absorbed into neighboring constituencies, which are themselves adjusting to urban sprawl and changing demographics. Similar outlook applies to **Gaspé and Bonaventure**, two sparsely populated ridings in the Gaspésie region. Merging these could form a single, large riding stretching across hundreds of kilometers.
Élections Québec has emphasized that every riding must contain a roughly equal number of electors to ensure that each vote carries roughly equal weight. The commission uses a margin of deviation—generally +/- 25%—as a threshold to determine if a riding is too small or too large, population-wise, to exist in its current form.
Why representation in remote regions matters
Many critics have raised concerns about what these changes mean for **representation in remote and rural communities**. As ridings become geographically larger, elected representatives may have a harder time maintaining close contact with constituents. These areas often face unique socio-economic challenges—ranging from healthcare access to infrastructure investment—which critics argue require dedicated political oversight.
Redrawing the electoral map is necessary for democracy, but we must ensure that no identity or community is lost in the process.
— Marie Tremblay, Political Science Professor
Citizens and local leaders in Gaspésie, for instance, argue that merging ridings could dilute their voice in the National Assembly. As these constituents live in widely dispersed areas, they rely more heavily on accessible local representation. The erosion of such a riding could be seen not simply as administrative efficiency but as a political erasure of rural voices.
Gains for booming suburban ridings
On the flip side of the coin, the redistricting plan proposes the **creation of new ridings in growth-heavy zones**, especially in parts of Laval and Montérégie. These regions have seen a boom in housing developments, school construction, and overall population. Creating new ridings ensures that fast-growing suburban communities are not underrepresented in Quebec’s legislature.
This approach also aligns with demographic shifts seen throughout Canada, where young families and immigrants are increasingly settling in suburbs due to lower living costs. With increased political representation, these communities will likely play a larger role in the province’s future elections and policymaking decisions.
Winners and losers in Quebec’s electoral shakeup
| Group | Impact | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Urban Suburbs (Laval, Montérégie) | Winner | Gaining new ridings due to population growth |
| Inner Montreal Residents | Loser | Potential loss of historic ridings like Anjou–Louis-Riel |
| Gaspésie Communities | Loser | Facing mergers, potentially lowering their representation |
| New Immigrant Populations | Winner | More proportional voting power in growing suburban ridings |
How political parties are responding
Political reactions to the proposed map have been mixed. Some parties welcome the new map as a logical adjustment to demographic reality, while others caution that such dramatic changes may tip the balance of power in ways that disadvantage certain electoral bases. Meanwhile, **current MNAs from affected ridings** have openly voiced concern about their constituents’ future representation.
We fear these changes could lead to communities losing their political voice, especially where geography already isolates them.
— Louis Garnier, Current MNA for Bonaventure (Placeholder)
The provincial government will consider these responses before an official decision is made. A consultation period is underway, allowing citizens and politicians alike to send their feedback to Élections Québec before a final revised map is adopted. Despite the controversy, a redrawn map must be finalized and approved well ahead of the next election to ensure smooth implementation.
What happens next
The proposed changes have kicked off a sequence of consultations, during which public feedback will be weighed against technical requirements and legal frameworks. Following that, Élections Québec will submit a final map recommendation to the National Assembly. If approved, the new map will be active for the **provincial elections in October 2026**. That leaves less than two years for new riding boundaries to become embedded in voter databases, election infrastructure, and civic education campaigns.
These maps are not static—they evolve with our people. Our duty is to ensure this evolution remains fair and inclusive.
— Danielle Roy, Spokesperson, Élections Québec
To stay informed, citizens are urged to participate in public consultations and review the proposed maps specific to their region.
Frequently asked questions about the new electoral map
Which ridings in Montreal are at risk of disappearing?
Anjou–Louis-Riel is currently listed as one of the ridings that could be eliminated or significantly redrawn due to stagnant population growth and its proximity to other low-density ridings.
Why is Gaspésie losing ridings?
Due to declining population and high emigration rates, Gaspésie regions like Gaspé and Bonaventure may be merged to maintain proportional representation under the law.
Are new ridings being created elsewhere?
Yes, suburban areas in Laval and Montérégie are expected to gain new ridings due to rapid population increases over the past decade.
When will the new map be official?
After consultations and formal legislative approval, the new electoral map will take effect for the 2026 Quebec general elections.
How can citizens give feedback on these changes?
Citizens can submit their opinions during Élections Québec’s public consultation phase, which includes regional hearings and online submissions.
Will these changes affect federal elections?
No, the changes apply only to **provincial electoral districts** and will have no impact on federal riding boundaries or representation in Ottawa.