The Yukon territorial election is anticipated to be officially called today, with Premier Mike Pemberton utilizing the maximum time permitted by law. Pemberton addressed his supporters on Thursday, announcing that he would meet with Commissioner Adeline Webber to formally conclude the 35th Yukon Legislative Assembly, thereby triggering the forthcoming election.
The election is scheduled for November 3, 2025, representing the last possible date under the territory's fixed election laws. This upcoming election is notable as it marks the first time that the Yukon will operate with 21 electoral ridings, an increase from the previous 19. Significant boundary changes will affect 15 of these ridings, following a commission's recommendations enacted last year.
The Yukon Liberals have maintained power since 2016, having secured a minority government in the 2021 elections with the backing of three New Democratic Party (NDP) members within the legislature. This coalition highlights the dynamics of Yukon politics, where minority governments can rely on strategic partnerships for governance.
As the electorate prepares to participate, more than 36,000 Yukoners are eligible to cast their votes in the upcoming election. Not only will citizens have the chance to vote for their representatives, but they will also weigh in on a non-binding referendum regarding electoral reform. Voters will decide whether to change the current first-past-the-post electoral system to a ranked voting system, representing a significant potential shift in how Yukon elections are conducted.
This election cycle is pivotal as it not only serves as a mechanism for Yukoners to express their political preferences but also opens up a dialogue on the effectiveness and fairness of the existing electoral system. The proposed ranked voting system may offer a more nuanced way for voters to rank candidates based on their preferences, rather than simply selecting one candidate.
Overall, the 2025 Yukon territorial election is set to be a landmark political event, marked by changes in electoral boundaries and potential reforms in voting methods. The implications of these changes could reshape the political landscape in the territory for years to come.
