A sudden federal election has been called in Canada, with eligible voters ready to cast their ballots on April 28, 2025.

This election campaign is poised to be influenced by Canadians' growing concerns about tariffs and trade relationships, particularly in light of the ongoing tensions with U.S. President Donald Trump's administration. As candidates hit the campaign trail, they'll need to address their approaches to safeguarding Canada’s sovereignty and economic stability.

Key Dates to Remember:

Mark your calendars! Here’s a rundown of important dates and processes for the 2025 federal election:

April 14 to 19:

Canadian Armed Forces personnel can vote at military polling stations set up at their bases.

April 18 to 21:

Advance polling stations open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. local time.

April 22:

The cut-off date to apply for voting by mail or special ballot is at 6 p.m.

April 28:

Election Day! Voting hours vary across the country; check local listings for specifics.

Am I Eligible to Vote?

All Canadian citizens aged 18 or older on election day can vote, but you must prove your identity and address. There are three accepted methods:

1. Present a government-issued ID with photo, name, and address (e.g., a driver's license).

2. Provide two pieces of ID: one with your name and a second with your name and address (e.g., a health card along with a utility bill).

3. If you lack ID, you can have someone vouch for you if they can prove their identity and address.

How to Register to Vote:

Most Canadians are registered via the continuously updated National Register of Electors. You can check and update your status online or in person at your polling station. If you’re registering for the first time or need to update information, you can do so conveniently at your local station.

Advance Polling:

Advance polls will be available for four days from April 18 to 21, giving voters extended access to cast their ballots. Also, special ballots for those within their home riding can be voted on prior to April 22, 6 p.m. ET.

Voting from Abroad:

Canadians living outside the country must vote by mail. You must apply by April 22, and your completed ballot must be returned to Elections Canada by 6 p.m. ET on election day.

Mail-In Voting Process:

All eligible voters can apply for a “special ballot” to vote by mail. Candidates' names will not be printed on your ballot; you'll write in the candidate’s name. Make sure to return your ballot by the deadline to ensure it counts!

Finding Your Candidates:

For details about candidates in your riding, visit Elections Canada's Voter Information Service. It has maps and information on polling stations, candidates, and past election results, with the final candidate list available after April 7.

Meet the Party Leaders

The main federal party leaders are gearing up for a heated campaign:

- **Mark Carney (Liberal Leader):** Former Bank of Canada governor, Carney seeks election in Nepean after a resounding leadership win in March.

- **Pierre Poilievre (Conservative Leader):** Longtime MP and former cabinet minister, he leads the Conservative Party after taking the reins in September 2022.

- **Jagmeet Singh (NDP Leader):** An NDP veteran since 2011, Singh pushes forward both for party values and the interests of working-class Canadians.

- **Jonathan Pedneault and Elizabeth May (Green Party Co-Leaders):** Pedneault will represent the Greens alongside May, who has been a stalwart since 2006.

- **Yves-François Blanchet (Bloc Québécois Leader):** Leading the Bloc into his third federal election, he focuses on Quebec's unique needs.

Debate Dates:

Mark your calendars for the federal leaders' debates on April 16 and April 17 in Montreal, a chance for Canadians to hear directly from the candidates. Moderated by seasoned journalists, these debates promise to address pressing national concerns.

Election Climate:

As the campaign unfolds, the government operates in a caretaker mode until the election concludes, which brings additional scrutiny regarding its engagements with international trade and tariffs. Expect heavy discussions on how to address the threats posed by foreign disinformation and online sabotage during this crucial time.

Stay Informed!

This election is critical for Canada, impacting everything from economic policies to social justice initiatives. Stay engaged, participate, and let your voice be heard!