A recent Léger-Le Journal-TVA poll indicates that a majority of Quebecers would accept reductions in public services to address the province’s significant budget deficit, but strongly oppose any increases in taxes or levies. The findings, reported on March 5, 2026, come as Finance Minister Eric Girard prepares to deliver a budget facing a substantial shortfall.
The poll suggests a willingness to compromise on service levels rather than bear additional financial burdens. This contrasts with previous public sentiment, as evidenced by a report in Le Journal de Québec from May 15, 2025, which highlighted Quebecers’ resistance to cuts in public services and a preference for increased taxation on high earners to resolve budgetary issues.
The current fiscal situation presents a considerable challenge for the government. In September 2024, a deficit of 11 billion dollars was already causing concern within Quebec’s ministries, with directives issued to limit spending for the remainder of the year, according to Le Journal de Montréal. The March 2025 budget, as reported by Le Journal de Québec, initially projected a deficit of 11 billion dollars, with a target for balancing the budget pushed back to 2030.
More recently, in June 2025, Le Journal de Montréal reported that the Quebec budget deficit had eased to 3.1 billion dollars, a more favorable position than initially anticipated during the previous fiscal year. However, the current deficit facing Minister Girard is now estimated at 13 billion dollars, according to Le Journal de Montréal, necessitating difficult choices to close the gap.
The Léger poll provides Minister Girard with some indication that the public may be more receptive to service reductions than tax increases. However, the extent to which Quebecers will tolerate cuts remains to be seen as the budget deliberations continue.
