Advance polls closed today in the federal byelections for the Toronto ridings of University-Rosedale and Scarborough Southwest, as well as a riding in Quebec. The results of these elections are being closely watched as they could potentially lead to a Liberal majority government in Ottawa.

Key Byelections and Potential Impact

The byelections provide a final opportunity for voters to cast their ballots before election day on April 13th. The outcome could significantly alter the current political landscape in Canada.

Vacancies and Candidates

The University-Rosedale seat became vacant following Chrystia Freeland’s departure to serve as an advisor to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Scarborough Southwest is open due to Bill Blair’s appointment as Canada's high commissioner to the United Kingdom.

Candidates vying for these positions include Don Hodgson and Diana Filipova for the Conservatives, and Fatima Shaban and Serena Purdy for the NDP. Both Shaban and Purdy previously ran in these ridings in prior elections.

Liberal Majority on the Line

The Liberal Party has the opportunity to secure a slim majority government by winning at least two of the three byelections, including the one in Quebec. A victory in all three ridings would provide a more substantial majority.

The presence of House of Commons Speaker Francis Scarpaleggia in one of the Liberal seats adds a strategic element, as his vote is only used to break ties, potentially impacting confidence motions.

Voting Options and Riding Boundaries

Elections Canada has established a Tuesday deadline for mail-in ballot applications, offering an alternative voting method.

Scarborough Southwest encompasses a large area of southwestern Scarborough, bordering Lake Ontario, while University-Rosedale is located in downtown Toronto, bordered by Dupont and Queen Streets.