Canadians are voting on Monday in a significant election that will determine the country's next leader, its response to President Trump's threats, and the future of its economy amid global turmoil.
Pre-election surveys indicated a slight lead for the Liberal Party, led by Prime Minister Mark Carney, over the Conservative Party, headed by Pierre Poilievre. The party that secures the most seats in the House of Commons will form the government.
Three additional parties are also contesting the election: the New Democratic Party, the Greens, and the Bloc Quebecois, which seeks sovereignty for Quebec. Just three months ago, the Conservatives held a commanding lead in polls, but the political landscape shifted dramatically following Trudeau's resignation and Trump's trade war, which bolstered the Liberals' appeal as a more capable response to U.S. pressures.
In Canada's parliamentary system, voters select representatives for their electoral districts, with the party winning the most seats forming the government, even without a majority. There are 343 seats available in parliament.
Mark Carney, 60, a former central banker, has positioned himself as an anti-Trump candidate, emphasizing his financial expertise to improve the economy and protect Canada from U.S. tariffs. In contrast, Pierre Poilievre, 45, a career politician advocating for deregulation and a smaller government, has drawn criticism for his similarities to Trump, which some voters find concerning given Trump's current unpopularity in Canada.
Polling locations opened at staggered times across Canada's six time zones, with most closing at 9:30 p.m. Eastern time. Results will be counted by hand, with updates expected late Monday night.
Concerns about Canada's housing crisis have emerged as a top issue among voters, as rising prices in urban centers have forced many to seek affordable options elsewhere. The average price for a home in Toronto has surged to approximately 1.4 million Canadian dollars, while Vancouver's has reached about two million dollars.
Both Carney and Poilievre have promised tax breaks for first-time home buyers, responding to the affordability crisis that many Canadians attribute to the current Liberal government. Additionally, a fire at a polling station in Windsor prompted voters to relocate to another site.
The New Democratic Party, led by Jagmeet Singh, has seen a decline in support, with many voters shifting their allegiance to Carney amid fears that the party's influence could diminish critical liberal policies.
President Trump's comments regarding Canada, including his suggestion that it should become the 51st U.S. state, have further complicated the political landscape. Both Carney and Poilievre have publicly rebuked Trump's interference in the election.
As the election unfolds, the Greater Toronto Area, which holds a significant number of seats, is expected to play a crucial role in determining the outcome. Voter concerns about living costs and housing prices are pivotal, with many residents seeking relief from the current economic pressures.
Overall, the election reflects a critical moment for Canada as it navigates its relationship with the U.S. and addresses pressing domestic issues.