
Voters are turning out in large numbers at advance polls for an important election. Global News
Advance voting in Canada’s 2025 federal election has reached historic levels. On Good Friday alone, over 2 million people cast their ballots, setting a new single-day record. This surge indicates that Canadians view this election as highly significant.
In the Carleton riding, Conservative candidate Pierre Poilievre narrowly won in 2015 by just 705 votes. However, he had a stronger showing in advance polls, securing 49.6% compared to the Liberal candidate’s 41.5%. This pattern reflects a broader trend where Conservative candidates often perform better in advance voting.
The strategy of mobilizing supporters early has been a cornerstone of Conservative campaigns. Doug Finley, a key figure in past campaigns, emphasized the importance of a strong ground game. His approach focused on getting supporters to vote as soon as polls opened, countering the Liberals' media presence. This tactic has been adopted by many campaign managers across the country.
The high turnout in advance polls suggests a highly engaged electorate. While it’s too early to determine which party benefits most, the enthusiasm is evident. In traditionally Conservative areas like Carleton and Bruce-Grey-Owen Sound, voters reported long lines at polling stations. Similarly, in strongholds of other parties, such as Vancouver East and Toronto Centre, voters experienced wait times of up to two hours.
This widespread participation indicates that Canadians are eager to have their voices heard in what many consider a pivotal election. The outcome remains uncertain, but the record-breaking advance voting underscores the importance voters place on this election.