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Canada Prepares for Federal Elections: What You Need to Know

Get ready for Canada's upcoming elections as voting day approaches!

By Ian AustenSource: nytimes.com1 min read
Canada Prepares for Federal Elections: What You Need to Know
Image via nytimes.com

In brief

Canadians are set to vote for their new government on April 28, 2025. With the Liberal Party under new leader Mark Carney and the Conservatives aiming for a comeback, here's everything about the election process, voter eligibility, and how to cast your vote.

Canada is gearing up for a pivotal federal election on April 28, 2025. This election will decide if the Liberal Party, led by Mark Carney—successor to former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau—will continue in power, or if the Conservatives, under Pierre Poilievre, will reclaim leadership after nearly ten years in the opposition.Every Canadian citizen, including those living abroad and prisoners, is eligible to vote, except for the chief electoral officer, who is barred from voting during their term of office. Interestingly, the governor general, representing King Charles, traditionally abstains from voting to maintain neutrality.Voters will choose their local representative in the House of Commons, which will include 342 members this election—an increase due to population growth. Canada employs a "first past the post" voting system, meaning the candidate with the most votes wins, even without an overall majority.To vote, Canadians should receive a card in the mail detailing their polling location, with advanced voting available over four days starting Friday. Elections Canada provides online assistance for those who need help with their voting cards.

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