Canada Election 2025: Voters Across the Nation Cast Their Ballots Today — Everything You Need to Know
After a fast-paced five-week campaign, the day has finally arrived. Canadians are making their way to polling stations today to decide who will lead the country in the coming years. The battle is mainly between Liberal leader Mark Carney, seeking his first full term as Prime Minister, and Conservative Pierre Poilievre, aiming for a political return after nearly ten years.
As voters head to cast their ballots, here’s a complete guide on the candidates, voter eligibility, and how you can participate in shaping Canada’s future.
What’s at Stake This Election?
The 2025 election is more than just a leadership contest — it’s about defining Canada’s direction on major national challenges. From soaring living costs and economic growth to healthcare reform and climate action, key issues have taken center stage.
Mark Carney is offering Canadians a vision of economic stability paired with environmental responsibility. His campaign focuses on strengthening the economy while investing heavily in green initiatives and social programs. Meanwhile, Pierre Poilievre has run a fiery campaign promising to lower taxes, make housing more affordable, and trim government spending, positioning himself as the candidate of personal freedom and financial responsibility.
Polls suggest a tight race, meaning every vote cast today will carry significant weight.
Who Are the Main Contenders?
While Carney and Poilievre dominate the headlines, several other party leaders are vying for influence:
- Jagmeet Singh (New Democratic Party) focuses on affordable healthcare, better wages, and reducing inequality.
- Yves-François Blanchet (Bloc Québécois) champions the interests of Quebec and seeks greater provincial autonomy.
- Elizabeth May (Green Party) continues to push for urgent action on environmental and sustainability issues.
- Maxime Bernier (People’s Party of Canada) targets voters frustrated with the political mainstream, advocating for smaller government and individual freedoms.
Each leader has spent the past month traveling across Canada, connecting with voters and making their case for change or stability.
Who Can Vote Today?
To participate in today’s election, you must meet a few basic requirements:
- Be a Canadian citizen.
- Be at least 18 years old as of election day.
- Prove your identity and address.
If you received a voter information card by mail, it tells you where to vote and what hours the polls are open. Even if you didn’t get a card, you’re still eligible — you can register at your polling place when you arrive.
Bring one piece of government-issued photo ID showing your name and address, such as a driver’s license or passport. Alternatively, you can present two pieces of ID — one with your name and another showing your address — or have someone registered in your polling division vouch for you.
How to Cast Your Vote
Polling stations across Canada are open today, typically until around 8:30 p.m. local time, depending on your province.
Here’s how the voting process works:
- Check in with an election officer.
- Present your ID.
- Receive a ballot.
- Mark your vote privately behind a screen.
- Place your completed ballot into the designated box.
Voting is designed to be quick and easy. Most locations are accessible for people with disabilities, and assistance is available if needed.
You can find your assigned polling place by visiting Elections Canada’s website, checking your voter card, or using the official Elections Canada app.
When Will Results Start Coming In?
Preliminary results are expected to begin rolling out early tomorrow morning, around 4:30 a.m. Eastern Time on April 29.
Given how close the race appears, it’s possible that a final outcome could take several hours — or even longer — if recounts are needed in particularly tight contests.
Throughout election night, news outlets will provide projections based on early counts, but official tallies will determine the winner.
Why Your Vote Matters
Today’s election isn’t just about who holds the Prime Minister’s seat — it’s about setting the country’s course on critical issues:
- Combating inflation and managing economic recovery
- Making housing more affordable for young Canadians
- Reforming healthcare after the pandemic
- Setting immigration priorities
- Responding to global environmental challenges
Your vote helps shape policies that will impact daily life — from jobs and taxes to education and public health. Every ballot strengthens Canada’s democracy, regardless of political preference.
Quick Tips Before You Vote
- Check your polling station details: Know where to go and when.
- Bring correct ID: Save time and avoid confusion at the polls.
- Stay patient: High voter turnout could mean longer lines.
- Trust reliable updates: Follow Elections Canada or trusted news sources for results and announcements.
If you have last-minute questions, Elections Canada offers support online, by phone, and at polling stations.
