The final day of the Canadian election campaign was marked by a car-ramming attack in Vancouver, which overshadowed the political battle between Prime Minister Mark Carney and Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre. The election, heavily influenced by US President Donald Trump’s policies, saw Carney, the Liberal Party leader, favored to win, although polls indicated a tightening race.

The Vancouver attack involved a driver plowing into a crowd at a Filipino street festival, resulting in 11 deaths. Carney paused his campaign to address the nation, expressing support for the affected families. The attack led to the arrest of a 30-year-old man with a history of mental health issues and prior interactions with law enforcement.

Poilievre condemned the attack as a “senseless act of violence” and expressed solidarity with the Filipino community. The incident briefly shifted the nation’s focus from Trump’s trade war and threats to annex Washington’s northern neighbor, issues that have sparked outrage among Canadians. Polling data suggested that Canadians viewed Carney as the stronger candidate to confront Washington, citing his experience as an investment banker and leader of central banks in Canada and Britain.

Voters like Brian Carr emphasized the existential threat posed by the US government and supported Carney due to his demonstrated leadership and financial expertise. Julie Dunbar highlighted Carney’s international experience as a key factor in her support. Since assuming the role of prime minister on March 14, Carney aimed to showcase his preparedness to navigate a trade war and address tariffs affecting critical sectors such as auto and steel.

Poilievre, a long-serving parliamentarian, concentrated on the rising cost of living during Trudeau’s tenure, arguing that Carney would perpetuate failed Liberal governance. He rallied supporters in Oakville, urging them to vote for change to address affordability and safety concerns. Tory supporter Janice Wyner expressed dissatisfaction with the country’s direction and criticized Trudeau’s policies.

Earlier in the year, Poilievre appeared poised to win the election, with his party holding a significant lead in the polls. However, the replacement of Trudeau with Carney and growing unease about Trump transformed the race. Recent polls indicated a narrowing gap, with the Liberals at 42.8 per cent and the Conservatives at 38.8 per cent. The election outcome also hinged on the performance of the New Democratic Party (NDP) and the Bloc Quebecois, whose results could impact Liberal seat counts.