Canadians Turn Out in Force for Early Voting in Federal Election

Across Canada, citizens flocked to polling stations on Friday as early voting for the upcoming federal election commenced. Long lines formed in cities, with voters waiting patiently to cast their ballots.

In Fredericton, N.B., a queue stretched outside the voting center, with people of all ages and backgrounds waiting. Some brought their dogs, while others had young children in strollers or held their parents' hands. Some individuals waited up to 45 minutes to vote on a pleasant afternoon.

Nicole Bent, who planned to be away from her home province, chose to vote early to ensure she could participate. She expressed that this election felt different due to recent events and statements from the United States President. She emphasized the importance of voting for the individual, rather than the party.

Mark Kunkle, also voting in Fredericton, found the first day of voting to be a quiet and convenient time to visit the polls. He highlighted the significance of this election, stating that the future of the country was at stake. Bill Randall, intending to vote Liberal, left the queue due to its length but planned to return the following day. He expressed his support for Prime Minister Carney.

In Whitby, Ont., retired police officer Guy Service hoped his vote would end a decade of Liberal government, which he held responsible for the housing crisis and restrictions on freedoms. He noted a positive atmosphere at the polling station, with many first-time voters and individuals from diverse viewpoints engaging in conversation.

Advance polls were open daily through the long weekend, with specific hours of operation in each jurisdiction. Voters were required to bring accepted forms of identification, such as voter information cards, bank statements, driver's licenses, or birth certificates.

Jane De Guzman, voting in Whitby with her husband, supported the Liberals due to her admiration for Carney. She saw him as an economist, not a career politician, and wanted to give him an opportunity to prove himself. She believed he was the right person to defend Canada against trade disputes. Matthew Gorman, another Liberal voter, focused on what Canadians could do to improve their country.

In the Carleton riding in Ottawa, voters faced an exceptionally long ballot with 91 names. Elections Canada noted that this was the second time a ballot had such a high number of candidates. Due to the large number of candidates, results from Carleton might take longer to report.

Early voting options included visiting Elections Canada offices before April 23 or voting by mail. The deadline to register to vote by mail was April 22. Individuals who applied to vote by mail could not vote at advance polls or on election day.

In previous elections, a significant number of people utilized advance polls.