Prime Minister Justin Trudeau made a failed last-minute attempt to get opposition support and extend his minority government after announcing his resignation on January 6.
Sources told Radio-Canada that Trudeau personally reached out to NDP leader Jagmeet Singh and Bloc Quebecois Leader Yves-François Blanchet the day after his January 6 resignation announcement.
Trudeau was looking for their support of the budget votes for late March.
Trudeau's strategy centred on using opposition support for budget appropriations following prorogation, which would have given the Liberal Party additional time for its leadership race.
However, both opposition leaders rejected Trudeau's plea.
During discussions with Singh, Trudeau emphasized the potential to expand dental care programs and the federal drug insurance plan with continued NDP support.
An NDP insider familiar with the talks dismissed this argument, stating that the government already possesses sufficient authority to implement these measures.
Blanchet's response was unequivocal, "The Bloc Quebecois wants elections as soon as possible!"
The Liberal Party will have a quick leadership race, picking a new leader on March 9.
The new leader will replace Trudeau before the return of Parliament on March 26.
Parliament must approve government budget appropriations three times every year to maintain funding for operations, programs, and transfers.
The upcoming vote, scheduled two days after Parliament resumes, represents a confidence matter that could end the minority Liberal government if they cannot get opposition support.
The failed diplomatic effort leaves Trudeau's government in a vulnerable position, with both major opposition parties maintaining their stance to defeat the Liberals at the earliest opportunity.
Most likely, Canada will have a spring federal election.