Canada federal byelections: Early voting begins in three ridings

Early voting begins this Friday for three Canadian federal byelections scheduled for August 31. The contests are taking place in the ridings of Chicoutimi-Le Fjord, Beaches-East York, and North Vancouver-Capilano.

In Chicoutimi-Le Fjord, the seat became vacant following the resignation of Conservative MP Richard Martel after his appointment to the Senate. Candidates include Régis Gaudreault for the Conservatives, Daniel Gobeil for the Liberals, and Caroline Dubé for the Bloc Québécois.

In Beaches-East York, voters will replace Liberal MP Nate Erskine-Smith, who stepped down after more than ten years. In North Vancouver-Capilano, the vacancy follows the appointment of former Liberal Minister Jonathan Wilkinson as Canada’s ambassador to the European Union.

Elections Canada has noted that early voting polling stations will be open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. from Friday through Monday. Additionally, voters may use special ballots by mail or in person, though the deadline to apply for a special ballot is Tuesday, August 25, at 6 p.m.