Bloc and NDP pick up wins in federal by-elections

Two federal byelections in Canada resulted in contrasting outcomes for the political landscape, with victories for both the New Democrats and the Bloc Québécois.

In Winnipeg’s Elmwood—Transcona, the New Democratic Party (NDP) secured victory.

Candidate Leila Dance, in an emotional speech, told supporters she anticipated representing them in Ottawa, despite some results still pending.

Conservative candidate Colin Reynolds conceded, acknowledging the effort his team had made.

The byelection was closely watched to see if the Conservatives could sway NDP voters on key issues like labor and affordability.

Ultimately, the NDP held on to its long-standing stronghold.

Meanwhile, the Montreal riding of LaSalle—Émard—Verdun saw a surprising outcome, with the Bloc Québécois’ Louis-Philippe Sauvé narrowly defeating Liberal candidate Laura Palestini.

The race, one of the tightest in recent memory, also featured NDP candidate Craig Sauvé, who finished a close third. The final result was not known until after 2:45 a.m., with less than 250 votes separating the Bloc and Liberal candidates.

Sauvé captured 28 percent of the vote, edging out Palestini, who garnered 27.2 percent, while the NDP claimed 26.1 percent.

The loss in LaSalle—Émard—Verdun marks a significant upset for Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s Liberals, who had considered the riding a safe seat.

The Bloc’s victory is seen as a warning sign for Trudeau’s leadership, raising questions about the party’s standing in Quebec.