The confirmed list of candidates for the upcoming Battle River-Crowfoot by-election was issued last Wednesday, July 30, 2025, ahead of election day coming up on August 18.
Well over 200 candidates are on the list due to the controversial "Longest Ballot Committee". Of the 214 total names, only 10 are represented by parties with the remaining 204 running as independents, for the most part all under the same official agent Tomas Szuchewycz.
Also running as an independent is Sarah Spanier, who recently spoke with West Central Online following harassment concerns surrounding the election. Spanier feels the influx of candidates has complicated an already heated race that's gained national attention thanks to the candidacy of Conservative Party of Canada Leader Pierre Poilievre.
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The unusually large number of candidates on the ballot is causing changes in the voting process, Elections Canada also confirmed last week.
Write-in ballots will be utilized instead of the typical list style. Elections Canada believes the adjustment will help ensure the ballot remains manageable, clarifying that misspellings will still count as long as there is intent, and a reference sheet will be available.
It's almost time to head to the polls. Advance voting days start Friday and go through Monday, August 11 from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM local time.