Saskatoon early voters offer array of key issues driving their vote

Voters in Saskatoon said they were worried about the economy, health care and democracy as advance voting for the federal election entered its second day on Saturday.

Nearly two million people across the country cast an early vote on April 18, breaking the record for advanced voting.

At a polling station in Saskatoon, early voters gave a number of reasons for casting their ballots early. Some said they will be working on election day, while others said they just wanted to get it out of the way.

Mark, a first-time voter, said he was voting early because he didn't want to miss the chance on election day.

"For me personally, I think it's the well-being of the people," he said of what drove him to vote this year. "Making sure that the people come first and making sure that we all get to enjoy the benefits of living here and having a good life."

Other voters were more direct. 

"Changing the last 10 years," said Russ, about his top issue in the campaign. 

"Coming out of where we've been in the last 10 years and changing that."

The economy was also a key issue for many voters. Troy and Kelly, who both said they typically vote in advance polls, cited it as their top reason. 

"The economy is very important," said Russ. "For Western Canada in particular."

Advance voting will continue until 9 p.m. on April 21. April 22 will be the deadline to vote by mail using a special ballot. 

Nearly two million people across the country cast an early vote on April 18, breaking the record for advance voting.

Election Day will be on April 28. To vote at any polling station in either advance polls or on election day, voters must bring their voter information card and an acceptable piece of identification that lists their current address. 

Voters can also register to vote ahead of time or in person at the polling station on election day.