With just 10 days to go until election day, advance polls open Friday across the country for those who want to vote before April 28. Registered voters can cast an early ballot at their assigned polling station between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m. from April 18-21, via CBC News
Canadians eager to vote early braved long lines as advance polls opened Friday across the country.
From Ottawa to Vancouver, voters reported wait times of up to two and a half hours.
Advance voting continues from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. until Monday. Election day is set for April 28.
High Turnout, Longer Waits
Voters were not discouraged by the delays. Many expressed excitement about participating in a crucial election.
In Ottawa, James Knight, who regularly votes, was surprised by the line.
“This is going to be an hour, apparently,” he said. “But people are engaged—it’s an important election.”
He didn't blame Elections Canada. Instead, he credited the high turnout to increased voter interest.
“People are tuned in,” he said. “They want to be part of it early.”
Long Weekend, Longer Lines
With many Canadians off for the holiday weekend, polling stations saw heavier foot traffic.
In Vancouver’s West End, Peter Xing waited patiently. “The economy is my biggest concern,” he said.
“We need a strong leader. That’s why I’m here.”
Other voters cited different motivations.
Carl Aylward in St. John’s said recent comments by former U.S. President Donald Trump pushed him to vote.
“He said Canada might be the 51st state,” Aylward said. “That fired me up. We’re not for sale.”
Some Leave, Others Stay Despite Challenges
In Toronto, voters reported wait times of up to two hours. Many said they’d never seen lines like this before.
Social media buzzed with reactions, ranging from excitement over the turnout to frustration over delays.
In Winnipeg, Barbara Maguire reached her polling station just after 9 a.m.
“The lineup was already out the door,” she said. “It’s cold, but it’s worth it. This election matters.”
At Trinity United Church in Prince George, B.C., Tracy Larson and her husband waited two and a half hours to vote.
Normally, they’re done in 15 minutes.
Her husband, who uses a walker, found the long line difficult.
“Some elderly people just turned around and left,” she said, concerned.
Elections Canada Responds
Dugald Maudsley, a spokesperson for Elections Canada, acknowledged the surge in early voters.
“Some stations are bringing in extra workers to ease the crowds,” he said.
Maudsley added that strong interest on day one might hint at a larger overall turnout.
“Early signs are promising, but we’ll see what election day brings,” he said.
Over 130,000 Canadians had already voted by special ballot before advance polls even opened.
That’s more than double the early votes cast by the same time in the 2021 election.
Voting kits for Canadians abroad have also seen record requests this year.
Tips for a Smoother Voting Experience
To avoid long lines, Elections Canada suggests voting before 10 a.m. or after 4 p.m.
Bringing your voter information card can also speed things up.
Voting continues at hospitals and care facilities on Tuesday. That’s also the deadline for mail-in ballots and local office voting.
For polling locations and other information, visit the Elections Canada website or call 1-800-463-6868.
