Calgary (Rajeev Sharma): Canada is heading to the polls this spring as voters prepare to elect a new federal government on April 28, 2025. The snap election, called by newly appointed Prime Minister Mark Carney, comes amid shifting political dynamics and rising tensions with the United States. As political parties ramp up their campaigns, Canadians across the country are getting ready to cast their ballots, tune into debates, and shape the nation’s future.
When Is the Canada Election 2025?
Canada’s 45th federal election will be held on Monday, April 28, 2025. This snap election was called by Prime Minister Mark Carney after he took over leadership of the Liberal Party, following Justin Trudeau’s resignation. While federal elections usually take place every four years, Carney recommended dissolving Parliament early to address urgent national issues—particularly rising tensions with the United States.
Who Are the Party Leaders?
Here’s a quick look at the leaders of the major federal parties:
Mark Carney – Liberal Party of Canada
Pierre Poilievre – Conservative Party of Canada
Jagmeet Singh – New Democratic Party (NDP)
Yves-François Blanchet – Bloc Québécois
Elizabeth May and Jonathan Pedneault – Green Party of Canada (co-leaders)
Current Seat Count in the House of Commons:
Liberals: 152
Conservatives: 120
NDP: 24
Bloc Québécois: 33
Greens: 2
There are 343 seats up for election in 2025. A party needs at least 172 seats to form a majority government.
How Can You Vote?
To vote, you must:
Be a Canadian citizen
Be 18 years or older on election day
Be registered with Elections Canada
Voting Options:
On Election Day: Vote in person at your assigned polling station
By Mail: Apply for a mail-in ballot by April 22
Advance Voting: Available from April 18 to 21 at designated advance polling stations
Student Voting: On-campus voting runs April 13–16 at participating colleges and universities
Military Voting: Canadian Armed Forces personnel can vote April 14–19 at designated military polls
Visit Elections Canada for more information and to register.
Leaders’ Debates Schedule:
Hosted by the Leaders’ Debates Commission, both debates will be held at Maison de Radio-Canada in Montréal:
French Debate: Wednesday, April 16 at 8 p.m. ET | Moderator: Patrice Roy (Radio-Canada)
English Debate: Thursday, April 17 at 7 p.m. ET | Moderator: Steve Paikin (TVO)
Key Dates to Remember:
Campaign Period: March 23 to April 28 (37 days)
Advance Voting: April 18–21
Deadline to Register for Mail Voting: April 22
Election Day: April 28, 2025
