The federal election campaign is expected to kick off today. Here’s what you need to know

The stage is set for a crucial federal election this spring, with the focus expected to be on how the leaders will handle U.S. President Donald Trump’s trade war and his challenges to Canadian sovereignty. Prime Minister Mark Carney is anticipated to request Governor General Mary Simon to dissolve Parliament today, officially kicking off an election campaign that will culminate on Monday, April 28.

Just a few months ago, polls indicated that Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre was on track for a majority government. However, the political landscape has shifted dramatically since former prime minister Justin Trudeau’s resignation and Carney’s subsequent appointment. Now, the Liberals have surged ahead in the polls, with a three-in-four chance of winning the most seats if an election were held today. They lead in Atlantic Canada, Quebec, and have gained ground in Ontario.

While the Conservatives maintain strong support in Alberta and the Prairies, as well as a lead in British Columbia, the NDP is facing a decline in popularity that puts their party status at risk. The Bloc Québécois is also at risk of losing seats in Quebec, their stronghold province.

The upcoming election will also be shaped by Trump’s trade policies, with the president’s tariffs casting a shadow over the campaign. As Trump threatens further tariffs on Canadian goods, the leaders will need to position themselves as the best candidates to manage the economic instability caused by the trade war.

Poilievre has presented himself as a tough leader capable of standing up to Trump, while Carney has criticized him as being too aligned with the U.S. president. Carney, who has only been prime minister for a short time, will be seeking a mandate from Canadians to lead the country through turbulent times.

Meanwhile, NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh is hoping to attract progressive voters as the Liberals move towards the center. Despite the challenges, Singh remains optimistic about the party’s prospects in the election.

In a break from tradition, the Conservatives have announced that they will not allow political reporters and journalists to travel with their campaign, opting instead for open media access across the country. This decision has sparked controversy, with other parties committing to allowing journalists to travel with their leaders.

As the campaign kicks off, Canadians can expect a fierce battle between the main parties as they vie for votes and outline their visions for the future of the country. The election promises to be a closely contested and pivotal moment in Canadian politics.