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Canadians are set to cast their votes in a crucial federal election on Monday, following a 35-day campaign that has seen unprecedented early voter participation, alongside the impacts of U.S. policy under President Donald Trump. With threats of tariffs and provocative suggestions of making Canada the 51st state, the political landscape has been charged.
Key political figures, including Liberal Leader Mark Carney, Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre, NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh, Bloc Québécois Leader Yves-François Blanchet, and Green Party co-leader Jonathan Pedneault, have been actively campaigning across the nation to secure voter support.
According to a recent Ipsos poll conducted exclusively for Global News, the Liberal party is heading into the election with a narrow four-point advantage over the Conservatives. Preliminary figures from Elections Canada indicate that approximately 7.3 million Canadians voted early, a significant 25% increase compared to the 5.8 million who voted early in the 2021 general election.
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Throughout the campaign, Carney, drawing on his previous roles as head of the Bank of Canada and the Bank of England, positioned himself as a steady economic leader amidst the uncertainties brought on by Trump’s trade policies. Poilievre focused on addressing crime and the rising cost of living, while Singh emphasized the importance of government-supported social programs that are at risk.
Trump’s tariffs, central to a broader trade conflict, and his contentious remarks about Canadian sovereignty influenced the campaign significantly, prompting Carney to occasionally step into his role as caretaker prime minister to respond to pressing issues.
On the last full day of campaigning, a tragic vehicle incident during the Filipino festival in Vancouver shifted the focus for all major party leaders, who paused their activities to express their condolences. The attack resulted in the loss of at least 11 lives, with numerous others injured.
On election day, Carney and Poilievre will be in Ottawa, both anticipated to vote. Poilievre plans to stay close to his Carleton riding, which he has held since 2004 but faces challenges this election cycle. Meanwhile, Singh will participate in a campaign event in Port Moody, B.C., before attending a memorial event in Burnaby to recognize the Day of Mourning.
Global News will present a comprehensive election night coverage across the country, beginning at 7 p.m. Eastern/4 p.m. Pacific, hosted by Dawna Friesen, along with senior political correspondents who will provide updates on the results across key ridings.
The coverage will feature notable commentators including Mercedes Stephenson from The West Block, alongside political analysts such as former federal ministers and other experienced figures. Global News reporters have been assigned to report live from various campaign headquarters during the event.
Source
globalnews.ca