Snap election to be held on Sept. 20

ELENI KOPSAFTIS

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau triggered a snap election that will take place on Sept. 20, 2021 — two years earlier than scheduled. Campaigning began mid-August, and the Liberal Party hopes to win with a majority government. The sudden election presumably stems from the federal government’s current minority status as they currently have 157 seats in Parliament and need 170 to hold the majority. According to Global News, Trudeau and other Liberal leaders have accused oppositional parties of stalling or blocking legislation for several months. A majority Liberal government would ensure that Trudeau could pass legislation more easily. Meanwhile, oppositional parties have accused Trudeau of being “opportunistic” and “selfish” for calling an election as a fourth wave of COVID-19 is underway, but Chief Public Health Officer Dr. Theresa Tam told Global News that there are health measures that will help mitigate risk, such as mask wearing. Mail-in voting will also be an option. The first full day of campaigning began on Aug. 16, and party candidates have already begun outlining their platforms to the public in the news and on their websites and social media accounts. To vote, you must be a Canadian citizen, at least 18 years of age, and registered with the International Register of Electors. Information on how, when, and where you can vote is available on your voter information card or by checking with Elections Canada. You can vote before election day by using advance polling stations which will be open from Sept. 10-13, at your riding’s Elections Canada office until Sept. 14, or mail-in your vote through a special ballot voting kit. For the latter two options, you need to complete a special ballot application. To vote in-person, bring proof of your identity and address that has been issued by the Canadian government to the polling station. If you don’t have ID, someone with their own proof of identity and address can vouch for you. Make sure you register to vote ahead of time regardless of the method you use. For information on campaign commitments, each party candidate will debate current issues at the Canadian Museum of History in Gatineau, Quebec on Sept. 8 from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. for the French broadcast and on Sept. 9 from 9 p.m. to 11 p.m. for the English broadcast.

Polling stations open on Sept. 20, but advance voting is also an option for Canadians who’d like to submit their votes by mail or special ballots. CREDIT: ELECTIONS CANADA

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