Historic Voter Turnout Shatters Expectations

This past weekend, Canada witnessed an unprecedented surge in voter participation at advance polls, as revealed by Elections Canada. With a staggering 7.3 million Canadians casting their ballots, this represents a remarkable 25% increase over the 5.8 million votes recorded in the 2021 federal election.

A Closer Look at the Phenomenal Turnout

Preliminary data released on Tuesday indicates that every single day of the advance polls this year outperformed the same days from four years ago. Particularly notable was Friday, when 2,054,525 voters made their voices heard—up from just 1,401,010 on the first day of advance polling in 2021.

While turnout decreased slightly over the holiday weekend, with Saturday and Easter Sunday seeing 1,659,952 and 1,466,225 votes respectively, these figures still surpassed those from 2021. Monday emerged as the standout day, with an impressive 2,100,273 ballots cast—an increase from 1,906,617 in 2021.

Provincial Breakdown: Where Are the Votes Coming From?

The data shows that every province and territory, except Yukon, experienced an upswing in voter turnout. Ontario led the charge with a jaw-dropping 2,792,881 ballots cast, followed by Quebec with 1,595,591, and British Columbia with 1,104,151. Notably, Ontario reported the largest increase in turnout compared to four years ago, with an additional 563,539 votes.

British Columbia wasn't far behind, adding 291,025 more valid ballots to the count.

Yukon: An Exception to the Trend

Yukon was the only area to register fewer votes than in the previous election, with just 4,748 ballots compared to 5,318 in 2021.

Advance Polling Statistics by Province and Territory

Here's a breakdown of estimated voter turnout during this year's advance polls:

- British Columbia: 1,104,151

- Alberta: 815,131

- Saskatchewan: 206,754

- Manitoba: 229,379

- Ontario: 2,792,881

- Quebec: 1,595,591

- Nova Scotia: 210,030

- New Brunswick: 202,006

- Prince Edward Island: 40,015

- Newfoundland and Labrador: 75,691

- Northwest Territories: 3,631

- Yukon: 4,748

- Nunavut: 967

What's Next for Voters?

While early voting at Elections Canada offices has concluded, Canadians still have options. They can drop off their ballots at local offices or mail them if they are outside their electoral district or the country. Those who missed the advance voting period can still participate on election day.

With polls opening Monday for a full 12 hours, it's crucial to be informed about candidates and party platforms. For more details on who you can vote for in your riding, check out Global News.

Remember, as long as you are in line when polls close, you can still cast your vote!