Justin Trudeau’s Liberals pulled off a minority government, despite losing the popular vote nationwide to the Conservatives (33 – 34). The Liberal base of power remains in Ontario, Quebec, and Atlantic Canada. Trudeau was completely shut out in Alberta and Saskatchewan.

Despite being reduced to a minority government and losing support in all regions of the country, this result looks to be a workable minority government and should last a minimum of 18 to 24 months. The Liberals will have a willing partner in the NDP and between their combined 181 seats, they will be able to control confidence in the House of Commons.

Canada Elections

What's next?

Government Transition

A Liberal appointed team of experts (called a transition team) has been working for weeks to plan the Liberal transition back into Government. Critical tasks of the transition team include recommendations on the formation of a cabinet and the prioritization of public policy ideas based on the Liberal campaign platform.

Cabinet

Prime Minister Trudeau will appoint a cabinet by mid November. His challenge will be to represent regions of the country where he lost significant support or is not represented at all (Alberta and Saskatchewan).

Return to Parliament

It is likely that the Prime Minister will recall Parliament for a short session in 2019 (late November to early December), in order to set out the Government’s priorities for the coming mandate in a Speech From the Throne, as well as to introduce important pieces of legislation.

Government Priorities

Liberals will set policy priorities based on their stated campaign promises, but expect them to appeal to the NDP and the Conservatives on specific initiatives.

Government Priorities

Campaign Highlights

Campaign Highlights