The upcoming election on April 28 is anticipated to be a closely contested battle between the Liberal Party of Canada (LPC) and the Conservative Party of Canada (CPC). Following the resignation of former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, new Liberal leader Mark Carney has revitalized the party's standing in the polls, moving from a dire two-to-one deficit against the Conservatives just four months ago to a position where they are now slightly ahead.
As the election approaches, various ridings across Canada are viewed as key battlegrounds that could determine the outcome of the election. Here’s a breakdown of significant ridings to watch in different regions of the country.
British Columbia
Abbotsford-South Langley
This newly established riding features endorsements from retiring Conservative MP Ed Fast, who endorsed former provincial MLA Mike de Jong, running as an independent after being dropped by the Conservatives. He faces formidable challengers in Liberal candidate Kevin Gillies and Conservative Sukhman Singh Gill.
Burnaby Central
NDP leader Jagmeet Singh is at risk of losing his seat in this riding to Liberal candidate Wade Chang, with early polls reflecting a competitive landscape.
North Island—Powell River
This riding has garnered attention due to the controversial statements made by Conservative candidate Aaron Gunn regarding Indigenous issues. Despite backlash, Leader Pierre Poilievre continues to support him, with polls showing Gunn as a frontrunner.
Saanich—Gulf Islands
Green Party Co-Leader Elizabeth May faces a tough race against Conservative candidate Cathie Ounsted, with polling indicating a toss-up.
Vancouver Kingsway
Incumbent NDP MP Don Davies contends with a rise in support for the Liberal candidate Amy Gill in a riding that has been NDP stronghold since 2008.
Alberta
Edmonton Southeast
Amarjeet Sohi, Edmonton’s mayor, is running for the Liberals in a newly formed riding against Conservative Jagsharan Singh Mahal and NDP's Harpreet Grewal.
Edmonton Centre
The Liberals aim to retain their single seat in Alberta as Elenor Olszewski runs after the tumultuous term of Randy Boissonnault, who opted not to run again.
Calgary Confederation
With former MP Len Webber not seeking re-election, Jeremy Nixon is vying for the Conservative nomination against Liberal Corey Hogan, making this a competitive race.
Calgary Centre
Incumbent Greg McLean faces challenges from Liberal Lindsay Luhnau as polling indicates a potential shift in voter preference.
Prairies
Churchill-Keewatinook-Aski
This NDP stronghold is now a toss-up, as NDP incumbent Niki Ashton faces challenges due to past controversies surrounding her travel during COVID-19.
Elmwood-Transcona
NDP incumbent Leila Dance must contend with CPC's Colin Reynolds in a race that has tightened since previous elections.
Ontario
Carleton
Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre is likely to retain his seat, albeit amid a remarkable 90 candidate ballot due to a reform advocacy group.
Guelph
With former Liberal incumbent Lloyd Longfield not seeking re-election, the riding that has been a Liberal stronghold since 1993 may see a shift.
Kitchener-Conestoga
Incumbent Liberal Tim Louis defends his seat against Conservative Doug Treleaven, as previous close contests fuel competition.
Quebec
La Pointe-de-l’Île
The riding is projected to be competitive between Bloc MP Mario Beaulieu and Liberal candidate Viviane Minko, with the Liberals historically struggling in this area.
Rosemont-La Petite-Patrie
Incumbent NDP MP Alexandre Boulerice is popular, but the party’s performance will be tested against shifting national trends toward the Liberals.
Atlantic
Halifax
Lisa Roberts of the NDP faces tough competition from Liberal Shannon Miedema, indicating a likely Liberal edge.
South Shore-St. Margarets
Polls suggest a narrow contest between incumbent Conservative Rick Perkins and Liberal Jessica Fancy-Landry.
Acadie-Annapolis
A tight race is anticipated in this riding, where incumbent Chris D’Entremont faces a strong challenge from his Liberal opponent.
This election is shaping up to be a crucial moment in Canadian politics, with several ridings across the country exhibiting signs of uncertainty and potential shifts in voter sentiment. As both major parties gear up for the battle ahead, the outcome is poised to reflect the public's evolving priorities and concerns.
