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Each election period has key moments in which electors can exercise their right to vote, run for office, or apply to work in the elections.
A writ of election is a written decision issued by the executive branch, i.e., the Government of Québec. When the time comes to hold a provincial general election, or when a seat becomes vacant in the National Assembly, a writ of election is issued to trigger the election period. This period begins the day after the writ of election is issued and ends on the day of the elections, at the close of voting. It lasts between 33 and 39 days.
Since 2013, provincial general elections are generally held on a fixed date. However, the Premier retains the right to ask the Lieutenant Governor to dissolve the National Assembly before the end of the four-year term. A by-election must be called when the Member of Parliament of an electoral division resigns or dies. The government must call this election within six months.
The electors will receive a notice that allows them to check whether their name is correctly entered on the list of electors. This notice shall include the days and times on which they may:
A few days later, electors receive a reminder card that indicates them where to vote on election day, and which candidates are running in their electoral division.
Electors can register or modify their entry on the list of electors.
Electors have access to various advance polling methods depending on their situation.
Electors who did not vote at the advance polls may exercise their right to vote.
Those who wish to run as candidate may file a nomination paper.
Returning officers open their offices in each electoral division.
The ballot papers are printed.
The election officers count the ballots and Élections Québec publishes the results.
The results announced the day before are verified by a vote count.
The time limit for requesting a judicial recount has expired. Now, the Chief Electoral Officer may send the official declaration of election to candidates elected to the National Assembly.
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