Dem
47
GOP
53
Canadians go to the polls today in what has been described as the most consequential election in Canada in decades. The election for the House of Commons uses a first-past-the-post system in the 343 ridings (districts). The two main contenders are Mark Carney, who was elected Liberal leader after the resignation of Justin Trudeau, and Pierre Poilievre, the Conservative leader who just weeks ago was considered a shoo-in. Donald Trump's threats and Carney's entrance on the scene seems to have turned the tables, and polls are now predicting a Liberal victory.
There is a Senate that (in theory) is equal to the House of Commons, but in practice has very little power. Senators have to be between 30 and 75 and own at least $4,000 in property. They are appointed by the governor general on advice of the prime minister. Currently 51 senators (54.4%) are women.
The main question seems to be whether the Liberals will get an absolute majority or will have to form a coalition with one of the smaller parties. If the Liberals get an absolute majority, Carney has promised to Trump-proof Canada and will be able to do it without negotiating with any smaller parties, which often win some ridings.
The specter of Donald Trump looms large over the election, as Canadians feel massively insulted by his "51st state" comments and there has been a renewed sense of patriotism across Canada, with many people boycotting U.S. products and canceling vacations in the U.S.
It is more than a bit ironic that in order to hold off the hostile Americans, Canada is de facto (temporarily) adopting America's two-party system, with the small parties collapsing. Either you are for Trump or against Trump. There are no other options. If the Liberals win in a huge landslide, it will be a giant slap in the face to Trump. (V)