Quebec Liberal Party Leader Pablo Rodriguez is calling for an independent, external investigation after a media report alleged that supporters of his leadership campaign may have received cash rewards in exchange for their votes.
The allegations surfaced Wednesday following a Quebecor report citing text messages that appeared to show members being offered money for backing Rodriguez during the party’s leadership race earlier this year. Rodriguez won the contest in June after returning to provincial politics following years as a senior federal cabinet minister.
In a brief written statement, Rodriguez described the accusations as “serious” and said he has asked the party president to appoint an outside firm to conduct a full investigation.
Crisis Deepens Inside the Quebec Liberals
The controversy adds to a turbulent week for the Quebec Liberal Party. On Tuesday, Rodriguez removed Marwah Rizqy as parliamentary leader and suspended her from caucus, saying she had breached his trust. He said he was blindsided by her decision to fire her chief of staff, Geneviève Hinse, without consulting him. Rodriguez, who does not hold a seat in the National Assembly, had handed Rizqy responsibility for leading the caucus until the 2026 election — and she had endorsed him during the leadership race.
Now, with the new allegations emerging, the party faces questions about internal governance, leadership turmoil, and the integrity of its leadership election.
Federal Liberals Rally Behind Rodriguez
The political fallout reached Ottawa, where Rodriguez’s former federal Liberal colleagues expressed public support.
Stéphane Lauzon, MP for Argenteuil—La Petite-Nation, said Rodriguez is “the right person to manage crises.”
Sophie Chatel, MP for Pontiac—Kitigan Zibi, called him a longtime friend and pledged her support.
Government House Leader Steven MacKinnon said he trusts Rodriguez completely.
Jean-Yves Duclos, MP for Quebec Centre, acknowledged that the situation raises legitimate concerns and that many people are waiting for more details.
The investigation, once launched, is expected to determine whether the alleged cash incentives were offered by campaign officials, volunteers, or individuals acting without authorization — and whether they violate party rules or election laws.
The Quebec Liberals, already struggling to regain relevance ahead of the 2026 election, now face another test of credibility as they navigate this unfolding internal crisis.