Canada’s Upcoming Election: Your Ultimate Guide to What You Need to Know

At the start of 2025, Pierre Poilievre, leader of Canada’s Conservative Party, was considered the likely next Prime Minister. Many Canadians were growing tired of Justin Trudeau’s long tenure in the Liberal Party. Just as things seemed set, everything changed rapidly. Trudeau resigned, Donald Trump became President and threatened Canadian sovereignty with tariffs on imports. This chaos gave rise to Mark Carney, the new leader of the Liberal Party, as the political landscape shifted dramatically.

By March, Poilievre’s substantial 25-point lead in polls evaporated, and as Canadians prepare to vote, many believe the Liberal Party could win a fourth term in office. The influence of Trump, despite him not being Canadian, has significantly affected this election.

There are four major parties in play, but the main contenders are Carney and Poilievre. Carney, who once led the Bank of Canada and the Bank of England, is seen as someone who brings valuable experience. Many voters now seek a leader capable of countering Trump’s aggressive policies.

According to David Coletto, CEO of Abacus Data, Poilievre’s fall from grace has worked in Carney’s favor. “Canadians are looking for a leader who embodies competence and calmness in a turbulent time,” he explains.

Before the tariffs, Poilievre’s populist style resonated with many. But now, voters are wary. Robert Huish, a social science professor, notes that Canadians increasingly see Poilievre’s rhetoric as mirroring Trump’s views on migration and economic policy, causing some to distance themselves from him.

This election is deemed crucial, with many Canadians asking: who can best stand up to Trump? Jared Wesley, a political scientist, highlights the trust gap between Canada and the U.S. as a significant concern. “It will be tough to rebuild that trust without a shift in leadership style,” he states.

National pride has soared, especially after Trump’s disrespectful comments about Canada. A movement is growing to boycott American goods and even cancel trips to the U.S., uniting Canadians against Trump’s threats. First-time candidate Jessica Fancy-Landry emphasizes, “This is not just any election; it’s pivotal for our identity as Canadians.”

Apart from Trump’s influence, pressing issues like the cost of living and housing affordability are at the forefront of voters’ minds. Poilievre has built a strong following among younger voters concerned about home ownership. At a rally in Nisku, attendees Bentley and Teagan Reimer expressed anxieties about their futures, indicating that economic stability is a top concern.

No matter who wins, national unity will be vital. Wesley predicts it remains a central challenge for the future Prime Minister. In Canada’s electoral system, voters select candidates to represent their local ridings. The party with the most seats in Parliament forms the government. With election results expected to roll in later today, whoever wins has a daunting task ahead: navigating relations with Trump.