On April 28, Canadians voted in the 2025 federal election to choose members for the 45th Parliament. The election happened after a period of economic uncertainty due to trade issues with the US and President Trump's threats of tariffs. The main competition was between Mark Carney's Liberal Party and Pierre Poilievre's Conservative Party
With a record 7.3 million advance votes – representing nearly 25% of the estimated 28.9 million eligible voters – and a new 343-seat electoral map based on the 2021 census. Early trends indicate the race will be tight, with the Liberals potentially winning a majority, while voter turnout is projected to surpass the 62.6% recorded in 2021, reflecting increased public interest in shaping Canada's future amid domestic and international challenges.
There are 343 constituencies in the Parliament of Canada, known as "ridings". A party must win 172 ridings to declare a majority and win the election.
In the Canadian election, three major parties are fielding candidates nationwide.
Liberal Party
The Liberal Party is Canada's oldest active political party, which was founded in 1867. The party is positioned in the centre to centre-left on the political spectrum and advocates social liberalism, multiculturalism and a mixed economy.
Mark Carney is contesting from Nepean, Ontario, from this party. Carney, a former governor of the Bank of Canada and the Bank of England, will become Liberal leader and prime minister in March 2025.
Conservative Party
Founded in 2003, the current Conservative Party is from the merger of the Canadian Alliance and the Progressive Conservative Party. The party represents the centre-right-to-right wing, emphasising fiscal conservatism, lower taxes, strong national defence and traditional values.
The NDP
The NDP, founded in 1961, grew out of the Co-operative Commonwealth Federation (CCF) and the Canadian labour movement. The party is distinctly left-wing.
Jagmeet Singh, running in Burnaby Central, British Columbia. Polls suggest he risks losing his seat due to Liberal gains among progressive voters.
Bloc Québécois
During the Canadian federal election in 2025, the Bloc Québécois, led by Yves-François Blanchet, is focusing on Quebec sovereignty, cultural preservation, and fiscal autonomy.
