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Record 214 Candidates Crowd Ballot as Poilievre Nears Return to Commons

Elections Canada has introduced an adapted write-in ballot to accommodate the by-election’s unprecedented candidate field.

Federal Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre, seen in the view finder of a television camera, speaks at a news conference in Calgary, on Thursday, Aug. 7, 2025. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jeff McIntosh
Conservative Party leader Pierre Poilievre (REUTERS)
The adapted ballot being used in the Battle River-Crowfoot federal byelection is seen at an advance polling station in Camrose, Alta., on Aug. 8, 2025.

Overview

  • Advance polls have recorded about 14,454 votes, surpassing early turnout in April’s federal election.
  • The Longest Ballot Committee’s protest has enrolled 214 candidates, the highest number in Canadian federal history.
  • Officials warn the write-in format may extend vote counting once polls close.
  • Pierre Poilievre paused his campaign trail to hold a press conference in Saskatchewan, pressing for support for canola farmers and the cancellation of a loan to BC Ferries.
  • Analysts predict Poilievre will secure the safe Conservative seat on Aug. 18 and return as party leader in the Commons.