OTTAWA — Canadians will cast their ballots in a snap federal election on Monday, April 28, following a surprise call from Prime Minister Mark Carney, who cited unprecedented challenges to the country’s economy and sovereignty.
“We’re facing the most significant crisis of our lifetimes, because of President Donald Trump’s unjustified trade actions and threats to our sovereignty,” Carney said in a March 23 announcement. Speaking from Ottawa, he confirmed he had requested Governor General Mary Simon to dissolve Parliament.
“Our response must be to build a strong economy and a more secure Canada,” he added.
Carney will seek a seat in Nepean, Ontario, as he leads the Liberal Party into a high-stakes election campaign.
A 36-Day Race Begins
With just 36 days until election day — the shortest campaign allowed under federal law — political leaders wasted no time hitting the trail.
Poilievre Promises Tax Cuts
Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre, who is running in Carleton, promised immediate relief for working Canadians.
“A new Conservative government will cut income taxes by 15 per cent for the average Canadian — a tax cut for seniors and workers that will save a family almost $2,000,” he posted on X (formerly Twitter). “You earned it. Bring it home — for a change.”
Singh Focuses on Affordability and Equity
NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh, running again in Burnaby South, emphasized his party’s fight against corporate greed and support for essential services.
“I am running in this election to help you — not the billionaires,” he said on X. “New Democrats have a proud history of getting things done: protecting pensions, delivering dental and pharmacare, and standing up for working people. You are worth fighting for.”
Greens Call for Bold Change
The Green Party, led by Elizabeth May in Saanich—Gulf Islands, shared a rallying message:
“The countdown to April 28 begins now. We’re ready to make history, are you?”
Bloc Québécois to Champion Quebec Interests
Bloc Leader Yves-François Blanchet will represent his party in Beloeil—Chambly, continuing to advocate for Quebec’s autonomy and priorities on the federal stage.
What a Snap Election Means
Snap elections, by nature, compress the campaign into a short, intense period. Under federal law, the vote must be held on a Monday, making April 28 the set date.
To meet demand, Elections Canada is ramping up hiring across the country — including for returning officers and polling staff. Interested Canadians can visit elections.ca/jobs to apply.
Public Reaction: Trade, Economy, and More
The snap call has stirred a mix of concern and urgency across social media. While some users support Carney’s framing of the election as a battle for sovereignty, others say pocketbook issues must take center stage.
“April 28 marks a crucial moment for Canada. This election isn’t just about domestic policies — it’s about asserting our sovereignty amid economic pressure and geopolitical tension,” one user wrote on X. “Canada will not bend to U.S. trade bullying.”
Another responded: “That’s what you hope the election will focus on. The rest of us want it to focus on the economy, cost of living, immigration, soaring crime, eliminating catch-and-release, and making housing affordable for our youth.”
Poll Snapshot: Tight Race
According to the latest Leger Institute poll (March 14–16), support remains close:
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Liberals: 42%
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Conservatives: 39%
The stakes are high. With geopolitical tensions and domestic pressures mounting, Canadians will head to the polls on April 28 for Canada’s 45th general election — one that may very well define the country’s direction for years to come.
