Record-Breaking Early Turnout in Canada’s Federal Election: 7.3 Million Cast Advance Ballots

Canada has witnessed an unprecedented surge in early voter turnout, with a record 7.3 million citizens casting their ballots ahead of the federal election scheduled for April 28. According to Elections Canada, this figure marks a 25% increase from advance voting in 2021 and represents roughly a quarter of all eligible voters.

Advance polling stations were open across the nation over the four-day Easter weekend, drawing long lines and enthusiastic voters. Notably, 2 million Canadians voted on Good Friday alone. Mail-in voting has also risen, with over 754,000 special ballots already returned—surpassing the 660,000 total in the previous election.

As the campaign enters its final days, federal leaders are intensifying efforts to secure votes amid complex challenges, including a strained trade relationship with the United States. President Donald Trump’s aggressive trade policies and controversial remarks—such as suggesting Canada could become the 51st U.S. state—have added tension to the political landscape.

Recent polls indicate the Liberal Party, now led by former central banker Mark Carney, holds a 5-point advantage over the Conservatives. Carney has positioned his party as the strongest option to counteract Trump’s tariffs, stating, “Pierre Poilievre has no plan to stand up to President Trump.”

Trump’s administration has imposed blanket 25% tariffs on Canadian goods, excluding some covered under the USMCA agreement. These tariffs, along with global duties on steel, aluminium, and automobiles, have already triggered thousands of layoffs in Canada’s automotive industry.

A victory for the Liberals would mark a remarkable comeback after polling at just 20% following Justin Trudeau’s resignation in January. Meanwhile, Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre continues to campaign on economic reform, promising fiscal discipline and a break from nearly a decade of Liberal leadership. “It’s time for the government to start pinching pennies,” he stated while unveiling his platform.

Other parties in the race include the Bloc Quebecois, currently polling third, and the New Democratic Party in fourth place.

With election day fast approaching, Canadians now face a decisive choice about their nation’s leadership and its path forward amid global uncertainty.