This study uses panel data to examine the relationships among citizen attitudes related to Quebec independence. It has long been established that support for sovereignty is correlated to expectations about the economic and linguistic consequences of independence. Proponents of Quebec sovereignty tend to believe it will enhance the economy and preserve the French language, while opponents anticipate adverse effects on both fronts. We investigate whether economic and linguistic expectations drive preferences about independence, or whether preferences shape expectations. The analyses rely on Canadian Election Study panel surveys from 2004 to 2011 and employ cross-lagged models. Findings show that economic and linguistic expectations do affect support for sovereignty to some degree. However, the influence of sovereignty support on expectations is much more pronounced.
