The Race is On: 36 Days to Decide Canada’s Future

Canadians are heading to the polls in just over a month to elect their next federal government. This election presents a pivotal moment for the nation, with several key issues at stake, including economic recovery, healthcare, and environmental policy. This article offers a concise overview of the five major party leaders vying for the position of Prime Minister.

The Contenders: A Closer Look

Mark Carney: The Liberal Leader

Mark Carney, the Liberal Party’s relatively new leader, is aiming to retain the Prime Minister’s title. Hailing from Fort Smith, Northwest Territories, Carney’s background is primarily in finance, having served as governor of both the Central Bank of Canada (2008-2013) and the Bank of England (2013-2020). His fluency in French might potentially be tested during the debates, as he has occasionally stumbled in the language. Winning the riding of Nepean, Ontario, would mark his first electoral victory. He previously served as an economic advisor to Justin Trudeau during the pandemic, and was rumored to be in line for the Minister of Economy position following Chrystia Freeland’s resignation.

Stone: The Conservative Leader

In contrast to Carney,Stone,the Conservative Party leader,is a seasoned parliamentarian,having served in the House of Commons since 2004. Known for his assertive style, earning him the nickname “Pitbull,” Stone has been a fixture in Alberta’s political scene as his youth. While he once held staunchly conservative views, he now identifies as an “economic curator.” Since assuming leadership in 2022, Stone has championed policies focused on cutting taxes and taxes, building housing, repairing the budget and stopping crimes.

Yves-François Blanchet: Bloc Québécois Leader

Yves-François Blanchet is leading the Bloc Québécois for the third consecutive election. As 2019, he has consistently advocated for Quebec’s interests in Parliament, guided by the principle: If it’s good for Quebec, we will be for, and if it’s not good, we will be against. Prior to federal politics, Blanchet served two terms in the Quebec provincial legislature, including a brief stint as head in chief of the government under Pauline Marois and later as Minister of Sustainable Development, the Environment, Wildlife and Parks. His background includes extensive work in Quebec’s cultural sector. He will be running in the riding of Belœil-Chambly.

Jagmeet Singh: NDP Leader

Jagmeet Singh is in his seventh year as leader of the New Democratic Party (NDP) and his twelfth year as a Member of Parliament, following a brief period where he was not elected. A lawyer by training, Singh gained prominence early in his career for his advocacy regarding religious freedom, especially his right to wear a turban. Despite his established presence, recent polling data suggests a challenging election for the NDP. Surveys indicate the party is polling below 11% of the voting intentions, a decrease of approximately 7 percentage points compared to the 2021 election results.

Jonathan Pedneault: green Party Co-Leader

While the Green Party operates with co-leaders, Jonathan Pedneault would assume the role of Prime Minister should the party secure the most seats, a scenario considered highly improbable given their current standing. The Green Party held only two seats at the time of parliament’s dissolution. Pedneault, a former journalist and activist, rejoined the party leadership in 2025 alongside Elizabeth May, after stepping down in 2024 for personal reasons. He is running as a candidate in Outremont, Montreal.