Luc Rabouin has been elected as the new leader of Projet Montréal on March 15, 2025, marking the beginning of a new chapter for the party as it prepares for the upcoming municipal election this November. This change follows Valérie Plante's announcement last fall, stating she would not seek re-election after successfully leading the party since 2016.
Rabouin, who serves as the Plateau-Mont-Royal borough mayor, triumphed over four other candidates, gaining 59.2 percent of the votes after four rounds of voting. There was enthusiastic participation, with 82 percent of the party's 6,100 members casting their ballots at Entrepot Dominion, reflecting significant engagement within the party.
Following his election, Rabouin expressed gratitude to supporters and emphasized the diversity of Montreal, stating, "This victory means so much to me. We are the party of all diversities, and I’m committed to any effort necessary to be the party representing all of Montreal’s communities." His approach seeks to bridge differences and consolidate the experiences of various groups within the city.
Valérie Plante, who congratulated Rabouin during his victory speech, remarked, "I am passing the torch, but with great pride..." Her legacy includes notable victories for the party, including elections won on progressive platforms advocating for social equity and environmental sustainability.
During the leadership campaign, Rabouin proposed initiatives aimed at addressing Montreal's pressing housing crisis, including the establishment of a $100-million guarantee fund to stimulate real estate projects and support for modular housing. He also stressed the importance of improving public infrastructure and green spaces, showcasing his commitment to not just uphold but amplify the party's message.
Looking forward to the municipal election, Rabouin will be campaigning against Soraya Martinez Ferrada, the newly appointed leader of Ensemble Montréal. Martinez Ferrada, who previously served as the federal Minister of Tourism, expressed anticipation for the debates to come, stating, "Montrealers can count on @EnsembleMtl to provide..." Meanwhile, Rabouin critiqued her party’s lack of vision, affirming, "We won’t move backwards on social rights and we won’t move backwards on the environment, either." His pointed remarks during his acceptance speech received substantial applause, indicating strong support for his progressive stance among the party faithful.
With rising economic uncertainty and pressing social challenges looming, he acknowledged the current municipal struggles: "Thousands of people are at risk of losing their jobs, and it’s stressful for people — including myself. The social and humanitarian crisis we’re facing is upsetting people and making them angry. It’s within this tense atmosphere we need experienced leadership, and I believe our team is equipped to meet these challenges head-on."
The stage is set for the upcoming election on November 2, 2025, where Montreal voters will decide whether to continue with Rabouin's vision for change or opt for the alternatives presented by oppositional parties like Ensemble Montréal. Rabouin’s focus on affordable housing, economic revitalization, and environmental sustainability resonates with many constituents anxious for transformative policies during uncertain times.
With this new leadership and the strong platform Rabouin has set forth, Projet Montréal aims to solidify its place as the party leading progressive change in the city. Whether this new leadership can mobilize sufficient support amid Montreal’s vibrant political environment remains to be seen, and the results of the forthcoming election will undoubtedly shape the city's direction for years to come.