As the federal government prepares for a crucial budget confidence vote, government whip Mark Gerretsen stated that the Liberals are “ready for an election” if necessary. The minority Liberals require opposition support to pass the budget, needing 172 votes if all MPs participate. While the Conservatives and Bloc Québécois plan to oppose it, the NDP and Green Party’s Elizabeth May have yet to declare their positions, with May expressing concerns over climate commitments. The NDP’s abstention could help the Liberals avoid an election, but no party has publicly indicated an interest in abstaining.
