OTTAWA — The minority Liberal government has successfully navigated the first of three confidence votes regarding its federal budget. Members of Parliament voted against a Conservative sub-amendment that sought to reject the budget, with 198 MPs opposing the motion and 139 in favor. The Conservative sub-amendment argued that the budget was not affordable for Canadians.

The next vote is scheduled for Friday, where MPs will consider an amendment proposed by the Bloc Québécois. If the government loses this vote or the main budget vote, it could lose the confidence of the House, potentially leading to a snap election.

The Bloc Québécois had a rare opportunity to propose the main amendment after Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre missed his chance. The Liberal government, led by Prime Minister Mark Carney, received support from the Bloc, the New Democratic Party (NDP), and the sole Green MP in the House of Commons during the Thursday vote.

The outcome of the vote means the Liberal government will face another challenge on Friday. A spokesperson for Liberal House Leader Steven MacKinnon confirmed that both upcoming votes are considered confidence matters that could determine the government's future.

The Liberal budget includes a projected deficit of $78.3 billion, which is double the shortfall anticipated last year. It also outlines nearly $60 billion in spending cuts alongside significant investments in defense, housing, infrastructure, and tax breaks over the next five years.

Despite the NDP's reduced caucus size, the party could still play a crucial role in the upcoming votes. NDP interim leader Don Davies stated that the party had not yet decided how it would vote on Friday or on November 17, when MPs return to Ottawa after a break. He emphasized that the NDP could not support the Conservative motion to reject the budget, labeling it as “absolutely irresponsible.”

The political landscape shifted further when Conservative MP Matt Jeneroux announced his resignation from the party, adding to the uncertainty surrounding the Conservative caucus. Jeneroux's departure was met with applause from Liberal MPs as the House prepared for the vote.

The Liberals currently hold 170 seats in the House of Commons. To pass the budget with all 343 seats filled, the government will need at least 172 votes. The Conservatives and Bloc have made it clear they will oppose the budget, while Green Leader Elizabeth May indicated she would likely vote against it on November 17.

The NDP's position remains fluid, with some members expressing strong opposition to the budget. Davies noted that while the party is considering its options, including abstentions, the feedback from constituents will be crucial in determining their final stance. NDP MP Gord Johns mentioned that he is still weighing his decision, stating, "What we’re going to do right now is head home and get the feedback from Canadians, but I know certainly Canadians don’t want an election."