Voting begins in three federal byelections amid trade war concerns

Polling has opened in three federal byelections in Ontario, Quebec and British Columbia, as attention remains focused on the impact of U.S. President Donald Trump’s trade war on Canada. Voting is underway in BeachesEast York, ChicoutimiLe Fjord and North VancouverCapilano. Elections Canada said nearly 39,500 people had already cast ballots in advance voting, with North VancouverCapilano reporting the highest early turnout. The races carry different local stakes for the major parties. The Liberals are trying to hold North VancouverCapilano, while BeachesEast York is vacant after former Liberal MP Nate ErskineSmith left to run for Toronto city council. ChicoutimiLe Fjord became open after Conservative MP Richard Martel was appointed to the Senate. A new Ipsos poll for Global News also suggests many Canadians support a firm stance toward the United States, even if that means higher tariffs and economic costs. The article says the byelections are being watched as an early test of voter sentiment on trade and the federal parties.