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April 20 - How Canada's government works
Best bakeries in town. Election updates. Appeal court denies William Head escapee. Royals at risk.
Capital Daily Team
April 20, 2025
Good morning !
We hope you're enjoying your long weekend. Today we have stories on how exactly the federal government works anyway, on the best bakeries in town, and more.
— Cam
Today’s approx. read time: 3 / 7 minutes
🌡️ Weather Forecast
Today: 🌦️ 13 / 5
Tomorrow: ⛅ 13 / 5
Tuesday: ☀️ 14 / 5
EXPLAINER
How does Canada's federal government work?
Parliament hill in Ottawa. Photo: Shubham Sharan/Unsplash
For most of us, it's been a long time since we were given a breakdown of how exactly the Canadian government works. With federal election day just over a week away and advance voting going on right now, we think that it's a good time to refresh our memories on what, exactly, Canada’s federal government can—and can’t—do.
Whenever an election is unfolding, we often hear from readers confused about the choices facing the electorate and the powers their politicians wield.
Our friends at sibling publication The Fraser Valley Current wrote up a straightforward explainer this past week breaking down the different levels of government in Canada, their powers, and relationships.
They looked at exactly what the federal government can control, how the government is structured, and who is really in charge on Parliament Hill.
⚠️ Capital Bulletin
Sun & some cloud this week, with some rain & clouds expected toward week’s end.
High winds near Juan de Fuca Strait today.
UV Index 5 (moderate) today.
Expect busy ferries today: BC Ferries recommends reserving in advance or walking on.
Free parking downtown today at parkades & tomorrow at parades + street meters.
Missing man: Aaron Horn last seen April 11. [Info]
ELECTION BULLETIN:
Federal election advance voting until Mon. in person, or by mail by registering for a ballot by April 22.
Record 2M votes cast on Friday as advance polls open. [Canadian Press]
Costed party platforms: NDP & Liberals both just released theirs; Greens already did & Conservatives say theirs is coming soon.
Tight races expected in several Island ridings. [CTV]
Singh visits Victoria for first time in campaign; an announcement expected today [Times Colonist]
Island may be ‘hot spot’ for strategic voting. [CBC]
Read about the local candidates in our election hub here.
