Political Dynamics and Infrastructure Allocation in the Canadian Context: A Case Study of Québec’s COVID-19 Recovery Plan (Bill 66)

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Québec’s government tabled an economic recovery plan, Bill 66, which aimed to fast-track infrastructure projects. This article examines infrastructure spending in Québec to shed light on the role of electoral considerations in project allocation during the COVID-19 pandemic. A notable feature is that the projects’ list was made public, allowing for geospatial analysis and association with the province’s 125 electoral districts. The Canadian context, characterized by its Westminster-style, first-past-the-post electoral system, offers a unique vantage point. The article aligns with well-established political science theories on government spending allocation and underscores the significance of competitive districts, especially in transportation projects. In the landscape of pandemic-induced recovery plans, this research uncovers how a first-term government navigates the political landscape, offering invaluable insights into the Canadian political arena.