Vancouver byelection sees record-breaking advance turnout

Vancouver’s municipal byelection isn’t until Saturday, but the vote is already making history.

A record 7,671 advance ballots were counted over the two pre-polling days, making for an incredible 84 per cent increase from Vancouver’s last byelection in 2017.

“On the first day of advance voting, voters cast 2,876 ballots, and on the second day, voters cast 4,795 ballots — both days significantly surpassing the previous record of approximately 2,500 ballots cast at a single voting location in any election,” the City of Vancouver said in a statement to 1130 NewsRadio Wednesday.

Since 2017, the city says the Election Office expanded mail-in voting to all eligible voters, resulting in nearly 10 times the amount of mail ballots in 2025.

“Historically, byelections have seen lower turnout. The strong participation in this by-election so far is a powerful testament to Vancouverites’ commitment to shaping our community’s future,” the city said.

The byelection comes as long-time Coun. Adriane Carr announced her resignation from council in January, and Coun. Christine Boyle resigned after being elected to B.C.’s legislature in October of 2024.

Election Day is set for April 5, from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., at City Hall or any of 24 Vancouver community centres.