Election 44: Most view this vote as “more important” than 2019; personal stakes involved for three-quarters

On issues, climate change, COVID-19 bolster Liberals; economic issues and transparency boost CPC

As the verbal war of words heats up between party leaders over health care, Afghanistan, child care and mandatory vaccination, new data from the non-profit Angus Reid Institute finds the top issue identified by voters in driving their ballot choice is climate change. Notwithstanding discussion about a wave of early summer heat in western Canada and wildfires in B.C. and Ontario, the issue has yet to claim the a plurality of headlines during the two-week campaign. Despite this, one-in-five Canadians (18%) say climate change is the most important issue to them when it comes to considering which party they will support in this federal election, while 13 per cent choose improving health care access and the amount of taxes they pay.

Part One: How important is this election?

Most say election more important than 2019, but said the same in 2019 of 2015

Two-in-five say ‘a lot’ at stake in this election Ongoing pandemic has not increased stakes in election

Part Two: Key issues

• Federal government transparency jumps to the forefront

• Climate change a top issue for all age-gender groups

• Taxes a top priority everywhere except Atlantic Canada

• Liberals strengthened by climate change, housing, COVID-19

• Conservatives bolstered by government transparency, economic issues

• Housing affordability policy yet to sway voters to one side