Canada votes in a critical federal election amid rising U.S. trade tensions and political pressure, as Mark Carney seeks a full mandate against Conservative challenger Pierre Poilievre.

Canadians are casting their ballots in a pivotal federal election that could either cement Mark Carney’s leadership with a full four-year term or return the Conservative Party to power after nearly a decade of Liberal rule.

Voting began early Monday in Newfoundland and Labrador, as the country faces mounting external pressure — especially from its southern neighbor. U.S. President Donald Trump’s escalating tariffs and provocative remarks about making Canada “the 51st state” have injected high drama into this year’s campaign, uniting Canadians across party lines in concern.

“I reject any attempt to break Canada’s spirit so America can claim us,” Carney said firmly in March. “We are masters in our own home.”

A High-Stakes Race Between Liberals and Conservatives

While several political parties are on the ballot, the race is primarily between Prime Minister Carney’s Liberals and the opposition Conservatives, led by veteran politician Pierre Poilievre.

Carney took over from Justin Trudeau in March after Trudeau resigned amid plummeting poll numbers. A newcomer to politics but a seasoned economic expert, Carney previously served as the governor of both the Bank of Canada and the Bank of England. He stepped into the role just as Trump imposed a wave of tariffs, sparking a trade dispute.

Carney responded forcefully, continuing Trudeau’s retaliatory trade measures, which helped reinvigorate Liberal support. The party quickly gained ground, closing what had seemed like an insurmountable gap with the Conservatives.

Carney’s Vision: Economic Stability and Sovereignty

Throughout his campaign, Carney has positioned himself as a steady hand with real-world experience in global finance. “I know how markets and institutions work,” he said in an October interview. “I’m using that knowledge to benefit Canadians.”

He’s pledged to reduce Canada’s dependence on the U.S. by investing in domestic industries: housing, energy, and manufacturing. “We’ll build homes, factories, and clean energy systems,” he said. “We will stand up for Canadian workers, our values, and our sovereignty.”

Conservative Pushback and Populist Appeals

Poilievre, meanwhile, has framed the election as a fight between regular Canadians and the “Ottawa elites.” He argues that Carney is merely a continuation of Trudeau-era politics. “Same playbook, same insiders,” he warned.

His platform promises tax cuts, reduced government spending, and fewer environmental regulations, with a focus on maximizing natural resource exports through pipelines and energy infrastructure.

While often compared to Donald Trump in style, Poilievre has distanced himself from the former U.S. president. Just before election day, he even told Trump via social media to “stay out” of Canadian politics after Trump urged Canadians to vote for Poilievre directly.

A Surge in Early Voting

Interest in this election has been intense. Over 7.3 million Canadians voted early — a 25% increase over 2021 — leading to long lines at advance polling stations.

“I waited 45 minutes to vote,” said Kristina Ennis in St. John’s. “Others waited even longer.”

With economic uncertainty, U.S. friction, and major leadership shifts at home, Canadians are making their voices heard in one of the most consequential elections in recent memory.

It was a night of reckoning. A political earthquake shook Canada’s left-leaning foundation as the New Democratic Party (NDP) faced a historic collapse in the 2025 federal election, sending shockwaves through the political landscape.

Once seen as a resilient champion of progressive ideals and a critical voice in the House of Commons, the NDP now finds itself at a crossroads. The party, which had held 24 seats in the previous Parliament, emerged from the 2025 vote with a meager 5—a stunning 79% drop that stripped the party of its official status in the House. The loss is not only numerical but symbolic, underlining deeper cracks within the party’s strategy, leadership, and public perception.

Jagmeet Singh Bows Out: A Leader’s Final Stand

Perhaps the most dramatic moment of the night was the defeat of party leader Jagmeet Singh in his own riding of Burnaby Central, a stronghold he had held since 2019. The loss was not just a political blow—it was personal. Moments later, Singh took the stage at the party’s election night gathering and delivered an emotional resignation speech.

“Tonight, the results are clear, and so is my responsibility,” Singh said. “I will be stepping down as leader of the New Democratic Party.”

He acknowledged the pain of the defeat but emphasized that the values the NDP stood for—economic fairness, climate justice, affordable housing, and equity—must not be abandoned. Singh urged the party to rebuild, renew, and re-engage with Canadians who once looked to the NDP as the conscience of Parliament.

From Influencers to Bystanders

Just four years ago, the NDP held a powerful position as a minority government’s key support partner. With the Liberals lacking a majority after the 2021 election, the NDP often held the balance of power, shaping policies on dental care, pharmacare, and pandemic relief programs. Their leverage, though not always visible, was real.

But by 2025, that influence had waned. Critics argue that Singh’s decision to repeatedly support the Liberal government—even when progressive voters were frustrated—blurred the lines between the two parties. This tactical choice may have alienated both core supporters and swing voters, leading them to question the NDP’s independence and relevance.

An Identity Crisis Decades in the Making?

To understand the 2025 collapse, we have to look beyond the headlines and into the party’s long-simmering identity crisis. Since the peak of “Orange Wave” optimism in 2011, when the late Jack Layton led the NDP to Official Opposition status, the party has struggled to maintain momentum.

Layton’s charisma, clarity of vision, and broad appeal helped unite urban progressives, Quebec voters, and working-class Canadians under a single banner. But in the years since, the NDP has struggled to define what it means to be a modern progressive party in a polarized and rapidly evolving political environment.

Is it the party of unionized labor or the gig economy? Does it prioritize climate over jobs, or try to reconcile both? Can it be both a principled outsider and a power broker? The 2025 results suggest that the party has yet to answer these questions in a way that resonates with voters.

Dissecting the Defeat: What Went Wrong?

Several factors contributed to the NDP’s dramatic downfall in 2025:

1. Vote Splitting on the Left:
   With the Green Party making modest gains and new progressive independents entering the race, the NDP’s traditional voter base was fragmented. In key ridings, even small shifts in vote share proved fatal.
2. Declining Urban Strongholds:
   Once the party’s backbone, urban ridings like Toronto–Danforth, Vancouver East, and Hamilton Centre either swung Liberal or were narrowly lost to newcomers. This reflects broader changes in urban demographics and political priorities.
3. Messaging Fatigue:
   Critics argue that the party’s campaign lacked a fresh narrative. While Singh’s personal charisma remained strong, the messaging felt recycled. “Tax the rich,” “invest in healthcare,” and “make housing affordable” are compelling themes, but they need updated framing and delivery to cut through voter cynicism.
4. Leadership Disconnect:
   Singh was widely liked but not universally trusted. His social media presence and relatability made him popular among younger voters, but this didn’t always translate into electoral loyalty. Some saw the party as more style than substance under his leadership.

The End of Official Party Status: More Than a Technicality

Losing official party status in the House of Commons is more than a symbolic blow. It means reduced funding, fewer resources, and significantly diminished speaking time during debates. Most importantly, it limits the NDP’s ability to scrutinize legislation and hold the government to account.

In the words of one veteran political analyst, “The NDP didn’t just lose seats—they lost their megaphone.”

Reactions from Within: Shock, Sadness, and Soul-Searching

Longtime party members expressed disbelief at the results. “I’ve been with this party for 30 years, and I’ve never seen a night like this,” said one former MP who asked not to be named. “We need to look in the mirror, not point fingers.”

Others called for immediate grassroots organizing to re-energize the base and reconnect with communities. Some younger activists argue that the party should move further left and embrace bold, disruptive ideas—universal basic income, climate reparations, public ownership of key industries—while others urge a more pragmatic path back to relevance.

The internal debate will likely shape the party’s leadership race in the coming months.

What’s Next for the NDP?

Rebuilding will be no easy task. The party must:

• Elect a new leader capable of inspiring both longtime supporters and new voters.
• Re-establish its presence in Parliament, possibly by forming alliances with like-minded independents or smaller parties.
• Engage in deep listening campaigns to understand where it lost touch—and why.

Perhaps most importantly, it must answer a central question: What does the NDP stand for in 2025 and beyond?

The party has historically been strongest when it’s authentic, unapologetic, and grassroots-driven. Whether it can reclaim that identity remains to be seen.

A Cautionary Tale for All Parties

The NDP’s downfall offers lessons not just for its members but for every political party in Canada. In an era of rapid change—climate crisis, economic inequality, cultural shifts—parties that fail to evolve or clearly articulate their purpose risk becoming irrelevant.

Voters are increasingly fluid in their loyalties and skeptical of political theatre. Authenticity matters. Results matter more.

Looking Ahead: The Rebirth of a Movement?

There is precedent for political comebacks. The Bloc Québécois returned from near-extinction. The Conservatives rebranded and rebuilt multiple times. Even the Liberals bounced back after their 2011 debacle.

Could the NDP follow suit?

Some in the party remain hopeful. “This isn’t the end,” said a young volunteer from Montreal. “It’s a wake-up call. And maybe that’s what we needed.”

Singh echoed a similar sentiment during his final remarks as leader: “Movements are not measured in seats alone. They are measured in the courage of their convictions and the hearts they touch. The work continues.”

Conclusion: Not Defeated, Just Delayed?

The 2025 election will be remembered as the NDP’s darkest hour in decades. Yet history often shows that from great defeats can come powerful resurgence. The party’s future will depend on its ability to listen, learn, and lead with renewed clarity.

In 2022, Jagmeet Singh stood at the peak of Canadian politics. Bold, charismatic, and a skilled negotiator, he helped prop up Justin Trudeau’s Liberal government, earning the New Democratic Party a central role in shaping federal policy. Three years later, Singh’s political career has taken a dramatic turn. Not only has the NDP suffered one of its worst electoral performances in decades, but Singh has also lost his own seat in Parliament.

Once hailed as a progressive powerhouse and the country’s most stylish politician, Singh now finds himself at a political crossroads. As the NDP faces an identity crisis and the potential loss of official party status, Canada watches the fall of a once-prominent figure unfold in real time.

A Stunning Defeat at the Ballot Box

April 28, 2025, will go down as one of the darkest days in NDP history. The party, which had 24 seats in the last Parliament, is now projected to win only seven—well below the 12 needed to retain national party status. The implications are significant: loss of funding, reduced influence in parliamentary committees, and limited access to speaking time.

But what truly shocked observers was the personal defeat suffered by Singh in his home riding of Burnaby Central, British Columbia. A Liberal challenger, Wade Chang, handed Singh a resounding loss, capturing more than 40% of the vote compared to Singh’s 27%.

This was not just a political defeat—it was a rejection of Singh’s leadership and a blow to a party in dire need of revival.

The Kingmaker Era: How Singh Once Shaped National Policy

Just three years ago, Singh played a pivotal role in keeping Trudeau’s minority government alive. The NDP’s support allowed the Liberals to avoid a snap election, and in return, Singh secured policy wins that included a national dental care program and a framework for pharmacare.

For many, it was a moment of strategic brilliance. Singh didn’t hold the balance of power by seat count alone—he held it by moral positioning. The NDP branded itself as the progressive conscience of Parliament, demanding action on healthcare, housing, and climate justice.

So what changed? How did a leader once courted by Liberals and admired by progressives lose his grip on Canadian politics so quickly?

Style Over Substance? Singh’s Public Persona Under Scrutiny

There’s no denying that Singh had flair. Media outlets regularly praised his fashion sense, and his sharp suits and social media savvy earned him a loyal youth following. Dubbed “Canada’s most stylish politician” by Buzzfeed, Singh managed to build a personal brand few Canadian politicians could match.

But in politics, style must be paired with substance—and this is where critics believe Singh fell short. His message began to feel repetitive, and the party failed to present a bold, distinguishable platform in the 2025 campaign. Voters searching for change either went with the Liberals or, in protest, stayed home.

The election was increasingly framed as a two-party contest between the Liberals and Conservatives, leaving Singh and the NDP sidelined.

Controversy and Criticism: The Khalistan Cloud

Singh’s political record also came with its share of controversy. His vocal criticism of India’s government and his past participation in events supporting the Khalistan separatist movement made headlines—and raised eyebrows.

In 2013, Singh became the first Western legislator to be denied an Indian visa due to his remarks on the 1984 anti-Sikh riots, which he called a “genocide.” While many Sikh Canadians applauded his stance, it also fed into a narrative that Singh’s priorities were more aligned with international issues than domestic ones.

In 2023, Singh expressed support for expelling Indian diplomats after the assassination of Hardeep Singh Nijjar in British Columbia. He called on the government to ban the RSS (a Hindu nationalist organization) and push for sanctions. While bold, these remarks deepened existing divisions in Canada’s already fragile foreign policy landscape.

Some voters appreciated Singh’s firm stance. Others saw it as political overreach.

The Breaking Point: Ending the Liberal-NDP Pact

The Trudeau-Singh cooperation agreement officially unraveled in September 2024. Singh withdrew NDP support, citing unmet promises and a lack of urgency from the Liberals on core social programs. Many assumed this would position the NDP as a true alternative heading into the federal election.

But the strategy backfired.

Rather than gaining momentum, the NDP was caught flat-footed. The party lacked a compelling new vision, and Singh was unable to capitalize on the political vacuum. The Liberals, led by Mark Carney, emerged as a stable center-left option, while the Conservatives focused on cost-of-living concerns.

Singh’s NDP was left squeezed in the middle—ideologically correct, perhaps, but politically irrelevant.

Burnaby Central: A Loss That Cut Deep

Burnaby Central was more than just a riding for Jagmeet Singh—it was his political sanctuary. He had won it twice before and spent significant time cultivating local connections. Losing this seat wasn’t just a numbers game; it was symbolic of how much the political winds had shifted.

Wade Chang, a relatively unknown Liberal challenger, capitalized on national trends and local dissatisfaction. His campaign focused on cost-of-living issues, housing affordability, and infrastructure—concerns that resonated more with voters than Singh’s broader federal platform.

In a night full of stinging results, Singh’s personal defeat may be the one history remembers most.

Resignation and Reflection: Singh Steps Down

On election night, an emotional Singh addressed supporters. He acknowledged the heartbreak of the results but also struck an optimistic tone.

“We are only defeated when we believe those who say we can’t dream of a better Canada,” Singh posted on X. “New Democrats built the best of this country. We’re not going anywhere.”

Invoking Chardi Kala—a Sikh term meaning ‘eternal optimism’—Singh promised to remain hopeful despite the circumstances. He confirmed he would step down as party leader once a successor was chosen.

It was, as Singh himself said, the “honour of [his] life” to lead the NDP.

NDP’s Future: Can the Party Rebuild?

The NDP now faces an uphill battle—not only to rebuild public trust but also to redefine its political identity. With the likely loss of national party status, it will struggle for visibility, funding, and influence.

Anne McGrath, the party’s national director, admitted the campaign fell short, noting the challenges of a “polarized electorate.” Yet she insisted that voters didn’t abandon the NDP out of hostility, but perhaps out of disillusionment.

“It’s never a win when you lose seats,” McGrath said. “But whatever strength voters give us, we’ll use it to fight for them.”

The coming months will involve deep internal review and soul-searching. Some voices within the party are calling for a return to grassroots organizing. Others want to modernize the party with younger leadership and bold environmental policies.

Whoever takes over must rebuild trust from the ground up.

What Went Wrong: Five Key Factors Behind the Fall

1. Lack of Message Discipline
   The NDP failed to cut through the noise. Their platform lacked sharp contrasts to either the Liberals or the Conservatives.
2. Leadership Fatigue
   After nearly eight years at the helm, Singh’s leadership style had become predictable. There was little new to inspire a shifting electorate.
3. Strategic Missteps
   Ending the pact with the Liberals may have seemed brave, but it left the NDP without a clear fallback strategy.
4. Polarized Election Climate
   As the 2025 election shaped into a Liberal vs. Conservative contest, many voters cast strategic ballots—leaving the NDP out.
5. Controversial Foreign Policy Stances
   Singh’s remarks on India and involvement in Khalistan-related events distracted from domestic issues that mattered most to voters.

Jagmeet Singh’s Legacy: A Complicated Record

Despite this setback, Singh’s contribution to Canadian politics is undeniable. He broke racial barriers, brought new energy to the NDP, and helped put progressive ideas like dental care on the national agenda.

But he also presided over electoral decline, internal confusion, and a loss of political momentum.

His legacy will be debated for years to come, but one thing is clear: Singh made history—not always successfully, but always boldly.

Final Thoughts: A Cautionary Tale for Canadian Politics

Jagmeet Singh’s rise and fall reflect the volatile nature of modern politics. Charisma, idealism, and authenticity are vital—but so are timing, strategy, and policy clarity.

The NDP now faces a defining moment. It can shrink into the shadows, or use this crisis as a catalyst for renewal. Whether the party chooses revival or retreat will depend on the strength of its next leader and the depth of its commitment to real change.

As for Singh, he may have exited the national stage—but his story in Canadian politics is far from over.

Stay with Maple News Wire for exclusive interviews with NDP insiders, leadership race coverage, and analysis on Canada’s new political landscape.

Mark Carney’s Liberal Party wins Canada’s 2025 federal election. Learn how his leadership style, economic expertise, and stance on U.S. relations shaped the results.

Canada’s 2025 federal election has delivered a surprising twist with Mark Carney at the helm of a victorious Liberal Party, though not without its challenges. With Carney leading his party to a minority government, the political landscape of Canada is set to undergo significant shifts, especially in the face of rising trade tensions with the United States and other pressing domestic issues.

A Historic Political Shift: Carney’s Win

Mark Carney, 60, has made history by securing his first elected seat in Canada’s House of Commons and now stands as the newly elected Prime Minister. This victory marks a significant shift from his earlier career in central banking, where he served as Governor of the Bank of Canada and Governor of the Bank of England. Despite having no previous experience in an elected political office, Carney’s deep expertise in global economics and financial crises proved crucial to his campaign.

The Liberals, under Carney’s leadership, secured 159 seats, but fell short of the 172 seats required for a majority. This will force Carney to lead a minority government, likely requiring cooperation from smaller parties to pass legislation. His anti-Trump rhetoric and economic vision, particularly on Canadian sovereignty and trade relations with the U.S., resonated with voters during a highly polarized campaign.

Conservative Challenge: Poilievre’s Struggle

In contrast, Pierre Poilievre’s Conservative Party garnered 143 seats, falling short of Carney’s Liberals despite a well-oiled campaign and the party’s appeal to the right-wing electorate. The Conservative leader struggled to overcome the momentum built by Carney’s economic leadership, particularly amid the external threats from U.S. President Donald Trump.

The Conservative Party had hoped to capitalize on rising Canadian discontent over economic issues such as housing affordability and the tariffs imposed by Trump, but Poilievre’s failure to sway a significant portion of the electorate left his party in the second-place position. Many political analysts noted that the anti-Trump stance adopted by Carney helped bolster his appeal to voters concerned about Canada’s sovereignty.

Global Reactions: Canada’s Role on the World Stage

Carney’s win also sparked significant interest internationally, particularly among Canada’s global allies. European Union leaders, including European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, expressed eagerness to strengthen ties between Europe and Canada under Carney’s leadership. The bond between the two regions, built on shared democratic values, was highlighted as a critical area for future cooperation.

The United Kingdom, too, congratulated Carney, emphasizing the growing importance of Canadian-British relations. Keir Starmer, the UK Prime Minister, voiced his excitement for future collaborations, particularly in the fields of trade, multilateralism, and defending democratic principles.

In India, Carney’s victory could lead to a recalibration of Canada-India relations, which have experienced some tension in recent years. Carney’s diplomatic approach and focus on global trade may open the door for better engagement between the two countries.

The U.S. Factor: A Trade War and Its Consequences

The ongoing trade war with the United States, led by President Donald Trump’s administration, played a significant role in shaping this election. Trump’s aggressive rhetoric and threats, including calls to annex Canada, became central points of discussion during the campaign. Carney’s strategy was clear: he promised to safeguard Canada’s interests by diversifying its trade relations and reducing dependency on the U.S.

In a speech following his victory, Carney told supporters, “We are over the shock of the American betrayal, but we should never forget the lessons.” This sentiment resonated deeply with Canadians, who have grown increasingly frustrated with U.S. tariffs and economic threats under the Trump administration.

What’s Next for Canada?

With Mark Carney in power, Canadians are facing a period of transition. The country will have to navigate through not only economic recovery and trade diplomacy but also address affordability, healthcare reform, and climate change—all while managing the political divides within Parliament.

Carney’s leadership will likely be tested as he works to establish a minority government. Though his campaign had been centered around economic issues and a strong national stance against the U.S., the coming months will reveal whether he can unite the country and achieve meaningful reforms in the face of divided political forces.

Stay tuned as we continue to follow the latest developments in Canada’s new political era under Prime Minister Mark Carney. Will he be able to lead with a steady hand through challenging international relations and domestic issues? The road ahead is certainly full of uncertainty, but Carney’s leadership promises to make it an interesting ride.

Mark Carney’s Liberals win Canada’s 2025 election, but are still short of a majority. Read more on the projected results and future government formation.

In an exciting and closely-watched 2025 Canadian federal election, Mark Carney’s Liberal Party is on track to become the largest party in Canada’s House of Commons, though it looks set to fall short of an outright majority. Projections currently place the Liberals at 159 seats, 13 shy of the 172 required for a majority. This would likely lead to a minority government, with Carney needing support from smaller parties to secure key legislative victories.

Despite the close results, Carney’s ascension as Canada’s next prime minister is a remarkable feat. His leadership, particularly his focus on affordability, Canadian sovereignty, and tackling external economic threats like the tariffs imposed by U.S. President Donald Trump, has struck a chord with voters. Although the Conservative Party, led by Pierre Poilievre, came in second with 143 seats, the Liberals’ policies have proven to be more resonant with the electorate.

Carney’s Political Journey: From Banker to Politician

Mark Carney, 60, is making history with his leadership of the Liberal Party, having assumed the role just months ago in March 2025 after Justin Trudeau’s resignation. Carney, a former central banker with no political office experience, took over the Liberal Party following a landslide election in which he won 86% of the vote within the party.

Carney’s long tenure as Governor of the Bank of Canada and Governor of the Bank of England gave him a unique reputation, particularly for his handling of the 2008 global financial crisis. His shift to politics initially raised some skepticism, but his economic expertise and leadership qualities soon began to earn him widespread support. Carney’s rise is even more remarkable given that he took over at a time when the country was facing significant political upheaval and public dissatisfaction with the Trudeau government.

Election Night Results: Close Contest, High Stakes

As the results rolled in, the Liberal Party celebrated their victory, though it was a bittersweet moment, with Carney acknowledging that the Liberals were not able to secure a majority. Party officials have stated that Carney’s leadership was critical in revitalizing the party’s fortunes, with his focus on economic stability and national pride resonating deeply with voters.

The Conservative Party under Pierre Poilievre, while still trailing, performed strongly, securing 143 seats. However, Poilievre and the Conservatives struggled to capitalize on growing public discontent with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s previous leadership, particularly in light of issues such as inflation, housing affordability, and trade tensions with the United States. Though Poilievre’s combative style appealed to the Conservative base, it was not enough to win over the broader electorate.

Meanwhile, the Bloc Québécois, led by Yves-François Blanchet, secured 25 seats, with Jagmeet Singh’s NDP taking 11. The Green Party is expected to win just one seat, marking a disappointing outcome for environmental advocates hoping to gain ground in this election.

Canada’s Changing Political Landscape: Key Issues at Play

The election was marked by high voter turnout and a political environment shaped by external pressures. With a looming trade war and growing nationalism, the Canadian electorate was looking for a leader who could protect Canadian sovereignty and address the mounting economic challenges. Carney’s position on addressing U.S. tariffs and securing Canada’s financial independence played a key role in his party’s popularity.

Though Carney’s victory is historic, the fact that the Liberals will need a coalition or agreement with other smaller parties to form a government highlights the ongoing divisions in the country. Political polarization remains high, and Carney’s success in navigating these challenges will define his tenure as Prime Minister.

A New Chapter for Canada’s Leadership

Carney’s prime ministership will undoubtedly represent a new chapter in Canadian politics. As Canada moves past the era of Justin Trudeau, the country now faces the task of building a future that balances global relations, domestic economic challenges, and social cohesion.

The next few days will be crucial in determining the future direction of Canada’s government. Whether Carney’s Liberal Party can form a stable minority government or whether Canada will head into another election remains uncertain.

Stay tuned to Maple News Wire as we continue to cover the developments in Canada’s political landscape. Will Carney lead the country into a new era, or will the opposition forces unite to challenge his leadership? Only time will tell.

Canada goes to the polls today to elect a new leader. Will Mark Carney or Pierre Poilievre secure the top spot? Here’s what to expect in this crucial election.

On April 28, 2025, Canada goes to the polls for a pivotal federal election. With Mark Carney leading the Liberal Party and Pierre Poilievre at the helm of the Conservative Party, Canadians face a choice that will determine the future of the country amid a backdrop of rising global tensions, economic uncertainty, and domestic challenges.

The election follows the unexpected resignation of Justin Trudeau, which set off a wave of change in Canadian politics. Carney, who took the reins of the Liberal Party earlier this year, is now in a fierce battle for the prime minister’s office. With the country grappling with inflation, housing affordability, climate change, and healthcare reform, this election promises to be one of the most consequential in recent years.

The Candidates: Who’s in the Running?

Mark Carney, 60, is the newest face in Canadian politics, though he comes with decades of experience from global finance. As the former Governor of the Bank of Canada and the Bank of England, Carney brings with him a wealth of international expertise. Supporters argue that his background in central banking and finance is just what the country needs in these uncertain times, while critics caution that he may be out of touch with the everyday struggles of Canadians. Carney is contesting a seat in Ottawa, aiming to represent the middle-class constituency he is now seeking to serve as Prime Minister.

Pierre Poilievre, 45, has been a mainstay in Canadian politics since entering Parliament at just 24 years old. Known for his combative political style and disciplined messaging, Poilievre has spent nearly two decades shaping his public image. A former cabinet minister under Stephen Harper, he’s made his mark with his strong stance on economic issues and his appeal to the Conservative base. While Poilievre’s leadership has been divisive, his supporters believe he has the right approach to tackle the economic challenges facing Canada.

Also in the mix are Jagmeet Singh, leader of the New Democratic Party (NDP), and Yves-François Blanchet, leader of the Bloc Québécois. However, it’s widely expected that the race for Prime Minister will be between Carney and Poilievre, with both candidates offering contrasting visions for Canada’s future.

What Are the Polls Saying?

Recent opinion polls suggest a tight race, with the Liberals holding a slight edge. According to CBC’s poll tracker, the Liberals are averaging 42% support compared to the Conservatives’ 39%. If these trends hold, the Liberals are projected to win around 189 seats in the 343-seat House of Commons, giving them a 70% chance of forming a majority government.

In contrast, the Conservatives face a more difficult path, with only an 11% chance of winning the most seats. The Bloc Québécois is expected to lose ground, and the NDP risks falling below the 12-seat threshold needed for official party status in Parliament.

Election Day: What to Expect

On election day, around 28 million Canadians are eligible to vote, across the country’s expanded 343 electoral districts. Polling stations will be open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. local time. Due to Canada’s six time zones, initial results are expected to come in from the Atlantic provinces, with final outcomes emerging after polling closes in the Pacific regions.

Campaigning Interrupted by Tragedy

While the election was already poised to be a heated contest, the final day of campaigning was marred by a devastating event in Vancouver. A 30-year-old man drove an SUV into a crowd at the Lapu-Lapu Day Block Party, a Filipino street festival, killing 11 people and injuring dozens more. The incident has shocked the nation, leading both Carney and Poilievre to pause their campaigns and address the tragedy.

In a heartfelt statement, Carney expressed his grief for the victims and their families, calling it a “horrific attack.” Poilievre, speaking from a church service in Mississauga, condemned the act as a “senseless tragedy,” emphasizing that “all Canadians are united in grief today.”

The Road Ahead

As Canadians head to the polls today, the outcome of this election could set the course for the country’s future in an increasingly turbulent world. With economic stability and Canadian sovereignty at the forefront of the campaign, voters are left to choose between two very different visions for the future: Carney’s financial expertise and steady hand, or Poilievre’s bold conservative reforms.

Stay tuned to Maple News Wire for live updates on election results as Canadians decide who will be the next Prime Minister and guide the country through the challenges ahead.

Jagmeet Singh steps down as NDP leader following a devastating election loss. The party loses its official status, and Singh reflects on the fight for a better Canada.

In a tearful concession speech that marked the end of a difficult electoral journey, NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh announced his resignation following a crushing defeat in the 2025 federal election. The party, which had been struggling throughout the campaign, failed to secure the 12 seats required to maintain its official status in the House of Commons, a blow to Singh’s leadership and the NDP’s presence on the national stage.

Speaking from his campaign headquarters in Burnaby, B.C., on the night of April 28, Singh said, “Choosing to commit your life to politics obviously comes with some sacrifice, but we choose this life because of the chance to change the country you love for the better.” As his voice quivered with emotion, he added, “We may lose sometimes, and those losses hurt. But we are only defeated if we stop fighting.”

Singh, who had represented Burnaby South in the House of Commons since 2019, conceded his seat to Liberal candidate Wade Chang early on election night, a pivotal moment in a race that saw the NDP sidelined in favor of a two-way competition between the Liberals and Conservatives. Despite his efforts, including an impassioned last-minute push for his party’s policies, the NDP’s inability to resonate with voters on key issues left Singh’s political future in jeopardy.

A Party in Decline

The NDP’s loss in the 2025 election represents a significant shift for the party, which had previously secured a strong foothold in the House under Singh’s leadership. The party’s failure to secure enough seats to maintain its official status is a symbolic blow to its influence, and the defeat has led many to question the party’s direction in the face of rising Conservative and Liberal dominance.

Singh, who took over the NDP leadership in 2017, struggled to establish himself as the go-to leader in the context of Canada’s larger political struggles. For many, the election boiled down to one question: who could best deal with the economic and sovereignty challenges posed by U.S. President Donald Trump? Despite efforts to shift the party’s message, Singh never fully entered that equation, with most Canadians leaning toward either Prime Minister Mark Carney or Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre.

The NDP had a rough start to the campaign, with polling numbers indicating a sharp decline in support. Singh, facing tough questions about his inability to gain traction, shifted his campaign focus towards positioning the NDP as a balancing force in a potential minority government. His party’s success in pushing dental care and pharmacare legislation through a minority government was seen as one of the few bright spots in the campaign.

“We get stuff done, like dental care,” Singh said in a rally before the election results were finalized. “But we’ve got to remind people, it’s all because of you. Because you vote NDP, we’re able to fight for you.” Yet despite these claims, the party’s efforts fell short at the ballot box.

A Challenging Campaign and the Loss of Hope

In his resignation speech, Singh acknowledged the challenging nature of the campaign and the disappointment that came with the results. He spoke about the NDP’s struggle to carve out a meaningful role for itself in a polarized political landscape, where issues of economic security and Canadian sovereignty dominated the conversation.

Singh’s remarks were filled with regret but also resolve: “I’m hopeful for our party. I know that we will always choose hope over fear, and optimism over despair, and unity over hate.” Despite stepping down, Singh’s commitment to progressive causes remained strong, even as his political career faced a difficult crossroads.

Singh’s leadership will be remembered for pushing forward progressive policies such as the fight for universal pharmacare and dental care, but it will also be marked by the challenge of uniting a divided electorate during times of economic uncertainty. The NDP’s struggles, despite these efforts, reflect the difficulty in overcoming Canada’s entrenched two-party system.

The Future of the NDP

With the party now without its leader, many wonder what lies ahead for the NDP. Singh’s resignation has sparked speculation about who will step in as interim leader and how the NDP will attempt to rebuild in the coming years. However, Singh made it clear that the struggle for a fairer Canada would continue: “We’re only defeated when we believe those that tell us that we can never dream of a better Canada, a fairer Canada, a more compassionate Canada.”

In the aftermath of the election, the NDP will need to regroup and reflect on its future in a rapidly changing political landscape. As Canadians turn their attention to the Liberals and Conservatives as the dominant forces in the next Parliament, the NDP must decide how to re-engage the electorate and rebuild its influence, starting with the selection of a new leader.

Singh’s legacy, although shaped by this electoral defeat, will undoubtedly influence the party for years to come. Whether the NDP can recover from this loss will depend on the next steps taken by the party’s new leadership and how effectively they can harness the energy of their base in a more competitive political environment.

Stay tuned to Maple News Wire for further developments as the NDP navigates its future in a shifting political landscape. The challenges ahead are great, but so are the possibilities for a party determined to fight for a more just and equitable Canada.