OTTAWA – The federal election in Canada has seen a surge in voter participation as nearly two million people cast their ballots on the first day of advance voting, which spans four days. This early turnout highlights the heightened interest in the election, with nearly 5.8 million voters participating in advance polls during the last federal election in 2021, a significant increase of over 18 percent from 2019.
Elections Canada, acknowledging the overwhelming turnout, announced via social media that it will implement adjustments to manage the high volume of voters. Many who attempted to vote encountered long wait times at polling stations, prompting the need for these changes as the election progresses.
This year’s advance voting days coincide with the long weekend in April, concluding on Monday, April 24, one week ahead of the general election scheduled for April 28. The advance polls are open daily from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. local time, offering voters ample opportunity to participate before the official election day.
As the election date draws near, key political figures have been actively promoting their respective platforms. Liberal Leader Mark Carney and NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh took the opportunity to release detailed documents on Saturday that outline their full campaign commitments, including proposals and projected costs. This transparency aims to inform voters about their intentions and potential impacts on the electorate.
Meanwhile, Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre, who was campaigning in Richmond, B.C. on Saturday, indicated that his complete party platform will be released soon. However, he mentioned that “95 percent” of the platform has already been made public, suggesting that most of the party’s key positions and policies are already available for public scrutiny.
With such a high turnout for advance voting and concrete commitments being presented by major party leaders, the 2025 federal election in Canada is shaping up to be a closely watched contest. Voters are clearly engaged, and the candidates are responding by presenting their visions for the future of the country.
– with files from Brenna Owen in Richmond, B.C., Kyle Duggan in Ottawa and Catherine Morrison in Whitby, Ont.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published April 19, 2025.
