Feels empowering: New Canadians excited to cast ballots in federal election – National [Video]

Naiwen Cao plans to wear a red T-shirt with a Maple Leaf on election day.

The 31-year-old says he’s feeling particularly patriotic for the April 28 federal vote, because it will be his first time casting a ballot — not just as a new Canadian — but ever.

“I’m very excited to vote,” said Cao, who immigrated to Calgary from China in 2021. He got his Canadian citizenship in January.

“I came from China. You never vote there. I don’t consider it free will.”

He’s still figuring out which candidate in his riding best addresses the issues he cares about.

Canada’s trade war with the United States has taken over much of the election campaign, but Cao said he’s more curious about how the parties plan to fix the immigration system to ensure newcomers are set up for success.

“I know immigration is not a hot topic right now for people to talk about, but I really focus on that.” …