Voters cast ballots in three byelections that could give Liberals majority in House

Voters are heading to the polls in three federal byelections today that are expected to determine whether the governing Liberals secure a majority in the House of Commons.

Two of the ridings are long-held Liberal seats in the Toronto area, while a third contest in Terrebonne, Que., is considered competitive between the Bloc Québécois and the Liberals. The Quebec riding is being closely watched as it could decide whether the government crosses the majority threshold.

According to Elections Canada, the byelections were called to fill vacancies left by former Liberal MPs Bill Blair and Chrystia Freeland, and to rerun the Terrebonne race after a court overturned the previous result. That election had been decided by a margin of one vote in favour of the Liberals.

The Liberals currently hold 171 seats after five opposition MPs crossed the floor to join the party. A total of 172 seats is required for a technical majority in the 338-seat House of Commons, though political analysts note that 173 seats typically provide more stable control of votes.

Polling stations are open from 8:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. local time in each riding, according to Elections Canada. Results are expected later this evening.