Canadians went to the polls on Monday to select their next Prime Minister amidst escalating trade tensions and annexation threats from the United States. President Donald Trump’s election day message, which included renewed threats, was met with immediate criticism.
Here are the most recent updates on the results of the Canadian election:
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The ruling Liberals in Canada are projected to have maintained their position in Monday’s election, but it remains uncertain whether they will secure a majority government. According to projections from CTV News and CBC, the Liberals were leading or had been elected in 133 electoral districts, while the Conservatives were close behind with 93. Prime Minister Mark Carney had sought a strong mandate to address the challenges posed by President Donald Trump’s tariffs and annexation threats, but the Liberals had not yet reached the 172 electoral districts required for a majority, as reported by CTV and CBC.
- Under the leadership of Prime Minister Mark Carney, the Liberals are hopeful for a victory in a closely contested race. The election day coincided with the aftermath of a tragic attack at a Vancouver street fair over the weekend, leading to a temporary suspension of campaigning.
- Canada, spanning six time zones, will see its final polling stations in the western regions close at 7:00 pm local time, with results expected later in the evening. A Liberal win would signify one of the most remarkable turnarounds in Canadian political history.
- Following Trudeau’s announcement of resignation on January 6, the Conservatives held a significant lead over the Liberals in most polls. However, Carney’s emergence as Trudeau’s successor, coupled with widespread concerns about Trump, reshaped the dynamics of the race. CBC’s final update on Sunday showed the Liberals with a national support of 42.8%, compared to the Conservatives’ 39.2%.
- The performance of two smaller parties – the New Democratic Party and the Bloc Quebecois – could play a pivotal role, as their strong showings in previous elections have impacted Liberal seat counts.
- Out of Canada’s 41 million population, nearly 29 million are eligible to vote in the vast G7 nation. A record 7.3 million individuals participated in advanced voting. The election will determine the 343 members of parliament, with 172 seats needed for a majority. The Liberals secured a majority in 2015 but have been governing with a minority since 2019.
- The Liberal Party, led by the new Carney, trailed behind Pierre Poilievre’s Conservatives until Trump’s provocations against Canada sparked a wave of patriotism and a sudden shift in poll predictions. On election day, the US president taunted Canadians by suggesting his involvement in the ballot and reiterated his desire for Canada to become the 51st state, falsely claiming US subsidies to Canada.Â
- Both Carney and Poilievre pledged to expedite renegotiations of a free trade agreement between Canada and the US if elected, aiming to eliminate the uncertainty affecting both economies.Â
- Poilievre, criticized during the campaign for his restrained response to Trump, firmly retaliated. “President Trump, stay out of our election,” he declared on social media. “Canada will always stand proud, sovereign, and independent, and we will NEVER become the 51st state.”
- Carney also asserted, stating, “This is Canada, and we make the decisions here.” The 60-year-old, who has no prior experience in elected office, assumed the role of prime minister just last month, succeeding Justin Trudeau.Â
