There is growing talk about a possible fall federal election with the Liberals set to deliver a throne speech next week.
But Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said Wednesday that he does not want an election, and neither do Canadians.
“I know that Canadians want their politicians to be focused on them and their well-being, and I know that all opposition parties want to do a good job of representing Canadians in their views and their concerns and they will look at the throne speech with that in mind,” said Trudeau during a news conference.
Next Wednesday’s throne speech will be followed by a confidence vote, which could trigger a trip to the polls for Canadians.
The governing Liberals would need the support of at least one opposition party to stay in power.
Despite not wanting an election right now, Trudeau said he is confident Elections Canada could make one happen safely.
“I think it’s irresponsible to say that an election would be irresponsible. Our country and our institutions are stronger than that, and if there has to be an election, we’ll figure it out,” he said.
Trudeau pointed to the province of New Brunswick, which held the country’s first election this week since the pandemic began.
“I think I should, and we all should, have tremendous confidence in Elections Canada to be able to bring forward strong measures to keep us safe and allow for the expression of the democratic will of the people.”
