Guy Lapointe, the former director of communications for the Sûreté du Québec, has announced his intention to run for the Parti québécois (PQ) in the upcoming provincial election. Introduced by PQ leader Paul St-Pierre Plamondon, Lapointe is seeking the party’s nomination in the Verchères riding, where he has resided for 21 years.
A Career Defined by Crisis Management
Lapointe’s transition to politics follows a career deeply embedded in public safety communications. He served as the communications director for the Sûreté du Québec for 13 years, from 2010 to the autumn of 2023. During this tenure, he managed media relations through several high-profile tragedies, including the Lac-Mégantic rail disaster, the shooting at the Metropolis, the L’Isle-Verte residence fire, and incidents on Highway 13.
Paul St-Pierre Plamondon highlighted this extensive background as a major asset for the party, noting that Lapointe’s experience dealing with difficult public events provides him with a unique perspective on the state of public security in Quebec. Since leaving the provincial police force, Lapointe has served as the communications chief for the Service de sécurité incendie de la Ville de Montréal (SIM).
Guy Lapointe is the son of the former Montreal Canadiens hockey player, also named Guy Lapointe.
Commitment to Sovereignty
Beyond his professional history, Lapointe framed his candidacy as a logical extension of his long-held political convictions. He recalled participating in door-to-door campaigning for the independence movement during the 1995 referendum at the age of 23. He stated that his belief in the necessity of Quebec having full control over its future and development tools has remained constant.
By recruiting a candidate with a high-profile background in emergency services and public safety, the Parti québécois is clearly aiming to bolster its credibility on governance and security issues. Lapointe’s long tenure in the public eye allows the party to leverage his reputation for stability during crises, which could be a significant factor as the October 2026 election approaches.
What Happens Next
With the provincial general election scheduled for October 5, 2026, Lapointe must first secure the nomination in Verchères. If he succeeds, his campaign is likely to focus on his professional experience in communications and public safety, combined with his long-standing support for Quebec independence. Voters in the region may see his background as both a police communicator and a current municipal official as a central pillar of his platform.
Frequently Asked Questions
What position is Guy Lapointe seeking?
He is seeking the Parti québécois nomination in the riding of Verchères, in the Montérégie region.
What is Guy Lapointe’s current professional role?
Since leaving the Sûreté du Québec in 2023, he has been the chief of communications for the Service de sécurité incendie de la Ville de Montréal (SIM).
How long was Guy Lapointe with the Sûreté du Québec?
He directed communications for the police force for 13 years, between 2010 and 2023.
Are you a resident of the Verchères riding, and how does this candidacy impact your perspective on the upcoming provincial election?
