November Election Announced: Will Regina Overcome Its Historically Low Voter Turnout?
- TDS News
- Western Canada
- July 5, 2024

Regina citizens will head to the polls on November 13 for the Municipal and School Board Election. Historically, voter turnout in Regina has been disappointingly low. In the last municipal election, only 21% of eligible voters participated, with just 41,527 people casting their ballots out of an estimated 2024 population of 233,466. This low turnout highlights the pressing need for more engagement in civic politics.
This year brings some changes to the registration process, which officials hope will streamline voting and increase participation. Elections Regina has introduced a registered voters list through a data-sharing agreement with Elections Saskatchewan. Residents are encouraged to update their information online at Regina.ca/elections, where they can also provide an email address to receive personalized voting details electronically. While pre-registration is encouraged for efficiency, all voters will still have the option to register on election day at their polling locations.
The administration and Elections Regina acknowledge that more must be done to engage voters. Returning officer Jim Nicol noted the uncertainty surrounding the low turnout in 2020 and emphasized the need for more creative strategies to incentivize participation. Many citizens have expressed frustration over issues like crumbling roads and inadequate transit, contributing to a sense of disillusionment with the local government.
Sandra Masters, who is seeking her second term as mayor, will play a crucial role in addressing these concerns. Her administration has focused on anti-poverty measures, support for local businesses, and reducing city administration costs. It will be interesting to see what new policies she implements and how much emphasis she places on increasing voter engagement.
With such historically low voter turnout, it’s vital for residents to remember that their participation is crucial for driving change. As the election date approaches, updating voter information and engaging in the civic process can make a significant difference. For more details and updates, residents are encouraged to visit Regina.ca/elections. Remember, if you don’t vote, you can’t influence the outcome.