Trudeau's decision to vote in Ontario election angers Quebec MP

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's decision to vote in the upcoming Ontario provincial election while representing a Quebec riding federally has offended at least one Conservative MP from Quebec.

The Prime Minister's Office confirmed Thursday that Trudeau would cast his ballot at the Ottawa-Vanier returning office. Trudeau arrived at the polling station late Friday afternoon with his wife, Sophie Gregoire Trudeau, and daughter, Ella-Grace.

Election day is June 7, but residents can vote in person before then at their returning office from May 10 to June 6.

Louis-Saint-Laurent MP Gérard Deltell tweeted Friday that it was unacceptable for a Quebec MP to vote in another province's election.

Elections Ontario says every Canadian citizen aged 18 and above is entitled to vote in the provincial election as long as they live in an Ontario electoral district.

A PMO spokesperson said Trudeau cannot vote in Quebec's fall election because he is not a full-time resident of that province.

Trudeau is permitted to vote in the Montreal-area riding of Papineau in federal elections because Elections Canada allows MPs to vote in their own ridings regardless of where they live, the PMO said.

Moved to Ottawa in 2013

Trudeau has represented the Papineau riding since 2008, but sold his house and moved to Ottawa in 2013 after becoming Liberal leader.

As prime minister he's entitled to live in Canada's official residence. He moved his family into Rideau Cottage on the grounds of Rideau Hall after taking office, due to the crumbling state of 24 Sussex Drive.

Citizens who have lived outside of Quebec for two years or less, or who are posted to a position with either the federal or provincial government, can still vote provincially in that province.

Ontario goes to the polls June 7, while Quebecers vote on Oct. 1.

Trudeau votes in the Ontario Election

7 years ago

Duration 0:38

The Prime Minister voted at the returning office in the riding of Ottawa-Vanier