Elections Canada Continues Vote Counting Amid Uncertain Majority
The direction of the next Liberal government is becoming evident as ballot counting progresses following a historic election day in Canada.
Canadians will have to wait until later Tuesday to determine if Mark Carney’s Liberals have secured a majority or minority mandate from the electorate.
Early Tuesday morning, Elections Canada opted to halt the extensive counting of special ballots, as several ridings remain too close to call.
One such outstanding seat was that of Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre in Ottawa, but The Canadian Press decision desk has now indicated a victory for Liberal candidate Bruce Fanjoy over Poilievre.
The counting of votes resumed at 9:30 a.m. ET.
Special ballots are submitted by mail or at Elections Canada offices by voters who are away from their respective ridings during the election.
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At the time counting was paused, the Liberals were leading or had been elected in 168 seats, just four shy of a majority. Elections Canada predicts that the uncounted votes could sway results in about a dozen ridings.
A majority government would empower the Liberals to enact legislation independently, while a minority status would require collaboration with other parties to advance their agenda.
In his victory address, Carney committed to mending a divided nation amid ongoing tensions with the United States. He vowed to lead a government that is inclusive of all Canadians and emphasized the importance of unity.
“Let’s put an end to the division and anger of the past,” Carney stated. “We are all Canadian, and my government will work for and with everyone.”
Despite his party’s defeat, Poilievre announced that he would continue as Conservative leader, calming some discontent from the crowd as he congratulated Carney.
“No, no, there will be plenty of time for debate and disagreement. But tonight, we unite as Canadians,” Poilievre remarked.
“We must learn from tonight’s outcomes to achieve even better results next time.”
NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh lost his Vancouver-area seat and declared he would step down as party leader once an interim replacement is chosen.
“We may face losses, and those moments are painful,” Singh expressed, visibly emotional alongside his wife in Burnaby, B.C.
“Defeat only occurs when we allow others to convince us that we cannot envision a better Canada—one that is fairer and more compassionate.”
At least a dozen New Democrat MPs faced electoral defeat, and early indications suggest the NDP may struggle to retain official party status, which grants vital research funding and greater opportunities in question periods.
Carney is anticipated to meet soon with U.S. President Donald Trump.
The two held their initial phone conversation during the first week of the election campaign, agreeing to promptly initiate discussions on a new trade and security agreement following the election.
Trump significantly influenced the campaign, making headlines with tariff threats and calls for Canada to consider becoming part of the U.S.
