Canada elections 2025: What you need to know

As Canadians prepare to head to the polls on April 28, 2025, the upcoming federal election is set to be one of the most consequential in recent history.

With economic pressures mounting, tensions with the United States rising, and leadership changes within major political parties, this election will determine not only who leads the country, but also the direction of Canada’s future. Here’s everything you need to know about the 2025 Canadian federal election.

The Election context

On March 23, 2025, Canadian Governor General Mary Simon dissolved Parliament, paving the way for a snap federal election at the request of Prime Minister Mark Carney. The timing of this election is notable for several reasons. Most significantly, it will be the first Canadian federal election in a decade without former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on the ballot. Trudeau announced his resignation in early January 2025 after significant pressure from within his own party, including the resignation of key figures such as Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland.

Carney, the former governor of the Bank of Canada and the Bank of England, was sworn in as the new Liberal leader in mid-March, quickly calling for the election. This marks the beginning of his first term as prime minister, following a leadership race where he secured overwhelming support.

However, Carney is not the only leader vying for control of the country. The election will see competition from several major political figures, each offering differing visions for Canada’s future amid growing domestic and international challenges.

Key Candidates and parties

Mark Carney (Liberal Party)

At 60 years old, Carney is a relative newcomer to politics, having made a name for himself as a financial leader on the international stage. Though untested in the political arena, Carney’s high profile and experience in global economics have earned him strong favor in the polls.

Pierre Poilievre (Conservative Party)
Poilievre, leader of the Conservative Party, has positioned himself as the primary opposition to Carney’s government. Known for his critiques of Trudeau’s administration, Poilievre is focusing his campaign on cost-of-living issues and promising fiscal responsibility. His popularity has increased over the course of the campaign, though he remains second in national polling.

Jagmeet Singh (New Democratic Party)
Singh continues to lead the NDP, focusing his campaign on expanding social programs and securing greater support for Canadian families. The NDP previously worked with the Liberals in a confidence and supply agreement but has been critical of the government’s economic policies.

Yves-François Blanchet (Bloc Québécois)
Blanchet leads the Bloc Québécois, a party dedicated to Quebec's interests. The Bloc remains a significant player in Quebec, holding 33 seats in the current Parliament and fielding candidates across the province.

Elizabeth May & Jonathan Pedneault (Green Party)
As co-leaders of the Green Party, May and Pedneault are focused on environmental policies and green energy solutions, though their influence has been limited in the face of larger party campaigns.

Maxime Bernier (People’s Party)
Bernier, leader of the right-wing populist People’s Party, has a controversial platform that focuses on reducing government intervention in the economy and emphasizing national sovereignty.

How Canada’s electoral system works

Canada follows a "first-past-the-post" system, which means that voters choose local representatives for each electoral district (riding). The candidate with the most votes in each riding wins a seat in Parliament. The party that wins the most seats in the House of Commons generally forms the government, and its leader becomes the prime minister. This system means that Canadians are voting for MPs, not directly for a prime minister.

This election will be the first to use a new 343-seat electoral map, which includes an increase in the number of seats from 338. To secure a majority government, a party needs to win at least 172 seats.

Key election issues and party positions

Cost of Living and economy

With inflation and affordability concerns topping the agenda, each party has proposed policies to alleviate economic pressures:

Conservatives: A tax cut plan aimed at reducing income tax rates and providing savings for working Canadians.

Liberals: Propose reducing the lowest tax bracket and providing targeted relief for retirees.

NDP: A pledge to address grocery prices and raise benefits for low-income seniors.

Green Party: Focuses on free education, universal childcare, and a guaranteed livable income.

Housing affordability

Housing remains a significant issue, especially in major cities. The Conservatives and Liberals have proposed various policies aimed at reducing the cost of homeownership, such as eliminating GST on new homes and committing to the construction of affordable housing units.

U.S. Relations and trade

With growing tensions between Canada and the United States, particularly regarding tariffs imposed by U.S. President Donald Trump, trade relations are a central issue. The Liberals and Conservatives differ on how to navigate the ongoing trade dispute, while the NDP proposes stronger measures to ensure Canada's sovereignty.

Environment and energy

The Green Party and Liberals emphasize environmental protections and green energy, while the Conservatives focus on energy development and infrastructure projects.

Health care

Healthcare remains a top priority for Canadian voters. The Liberals propose expanding dental coverage, while the NDP advocates for full public pharmacare and increased healthcare funding.

Current polling and predictions

As the election campaign nears its end, recent polling indicates a close race:

CTV News (Nanos Research): The Liberals hold a 6-point lead over the Conservatives (43% to 37%).

Angus Reid Institute: A 5-point Liberal lead, with 44% support compared to 39% for the Conservatives.

Key cities such as Toronto and Montreal are showing strong Liberal support, while the Conservatives remain competitive in rural areas.

How to vote

Eligible Canadians can vote on Election Day, April 28, 2025, or use advance voting options on April 18, 19, 20, and 21. Additionally, Canadians can vote by mail, provided they apply before the April 22 deadline. Voters must be Canadian citizens, at least 18 years old, and able to prove their identity and address.

Conclusion

The 2025 Canadian federal election is shaping up to be a pivotal moment in the country’s history. With rising economic challenges, international tensions, and shifting leadership dynamics, Canadians have important decisions to make. As Election Day approaches, it’s crucial that all eligible voters engage in the democratic process to help shape the future of Canada.

This election will determine how the country moves forward on issues such as trade, affordability, and healthcare. The choices made at the polls on April 28 will have a lasting impact on the nation’s political landscape for years to come.

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