Jobaaj Stories
Ruth Ellen Brosseau: A Political Comeback in Quebec?
Fourteen years after riding the "orange wave" to a surprise victory, Ruth Ellen Brosseau is once again vying for a seat in Canadian federal politics. The former NDP MP is attempting a comeback in Berthier—Maskinongé, the Quebec riding she famously represented for eight years before losing in 2019 and 2021.
From Las Vegas to Parliament Hill: Brosseau's Unconventional Journey
Brosseau's 2011 election win, part of the NDP's significant gains in Quebec under Jack Layton, was nothing short of sensational. Initially criticized for her lack of familiarity with the riding (she famously spent part of the campaign in Las Vegas) and for her French language skills in a predominantly francophone constituency, Brosseau persevered. She rose through the party ranks, serving as the NDP's agriculture critic and vice-chair of the national caucus. She also dedicated herself to improving her French proficiency.
A Narrow Defeat and Renewed Hope
Despite her achievements, Brosseau lost her seat in 2019 to the Bloc Québécois' Yves Perron, a defeat she narrowly repeated in 2021. Now, with the NDP facing significant challenges in Quebec—a recent Leger poll showed them at only seven per cent—Brosseau’s candidacy represents a crucial attempt to regain lost ground. Her decision, announced Friday, signals a renewed determination to serve the people of Berthier—Maskinongé.
The 2023 Election: A High-Stakes Race
This year's election pits Brosseau against Perron (Bloc Québécois), Leo Soulieres (Conservative Party), Alexandre Bellemare (Liberal Party), and Geneviève Sénécal (People's Party of Canada). NDP leader Jagmeet Singh has publicly endorsed Brosseau, highlighting the importance of her candidacy in the party's broader strategy for Quebec. Singh emphasizes the choice before Canadians: supporting the Liberals or opting for NDP candidates like Brosseau, who champion affordability and equity.
Brosseau's Political Future: An Uncertain Outcome
Brosseau's comeback bid is a high-stakes gamble. While her past successes demonstrate resilience and determination, the NDP faces an uphill battle in Quebec. The outcome of the election will not only determine Brosseau's political future but also significantly impact the NDP's presence in the province. Only time will tell whether she can recapture the magic of 2011 or whether this chapter will mark the end of her political journey.
