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Survey of Electors Following the October 26, 2020, By-election in Toronto Centre and York Centre (Ontario)

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Appendix

1. Methodological Details

Sampling

A dual-frame (landline and cell phone) sampling method was undertaken using random-digit dialling. The landline sample was supplied by ASDE. The wireless sample was supplied by Advanis.

To ensure that the sample was representative, and that the results reflected the distribution of electors by age and gender, the sample frame was based on Statistics Canada 2016 census data for Toronto Centre and York Centre ridings. Respondents were randomly selected using cellphone and landline samples in an effort to reach younger electors and to ensure that cellphone-only households were included in the sampling frame. Those reached via landline were asked to speak to the youngest eligible voter in the household in an effort to maximize the representation of younger electors in the survey sample.

The same random-selection process was used for both the landline and cellphone samples. In terms of the specific respondent in the household, interviewers asked to speak to an individual, 18 years of age and older, or a person in the household who had the most recent birthday. If that was not the initial individual answering the telephone, but another in the household, interviewers asked to speak to the eligible respondent. No selection procedures were used for the cellphone sample.

Once an appropriate adult was reached, voter eligibility was verified by the interviewer. To be eligible for the survey, respondents had to be Canadian citizens, at least 18 years of age on polling day, whose address of ordinary residence was in the electoral district from the first day of the revision period until election day.

Pre-test

To pre-test the questionnaire, respondents were first administered the survey and then asked a series of short follow-up questions. The debriefing following the survey provided an opportunity for respondents to offer feedback on the questionnaire. The follow-up questions were:

  • What's your overall impression of the survey … was it clear and easy to understand? If not, why not?
  • Did the survey appear to be well-organized? If not, why not?
  • Did any of the questions in the survey cause confusion? If so, which ones and why?
  • Could any of the questions be worded more clearly? If so, which ones and why? Do you have any suggestions to improve the way the question(s) is/are asked?

In total, 20 pre-test interviews were conducted by telephone on October 27, 2020. Respondents had the choice of participating in the official language of their choice. In total, 10 pre-test interviews were completed in English in each riding. The pre-test interviews were digitally recorded and reviewed by Phoenix SPI team members and Elections Canada officials.

Overall, the questionnaire worked well, as was expected given that it had been administered following previous by-elections.

Data Collection

All fieldwork was conducted using computer-assisted telephone interviewing technology. In an effort to minimize non-response bias, those who declined to complete the survey over the telephone were given the option to complete the survey online. Although 11 electors agreed to complete the online survey, none of them did so. All completed surveys, therefore, were administered over the phone.

In total, 804 electors were interviewed by telephone. Based on a sample of this size, the overall results can be considered accurate to within ±3.5%, 19 times out of 20.

The following specifications applied:

  • The questionnaire was programmed using a computer-assisted telephone interviewing (CATI) and computer-assisted web interviewing (CAWI) system.
  • The survey averaged 15 minutes to complete.
  • Respondents were informed their participation was voluntary and that the information was administered in accordance with the Privacy Act.
  • For both the landline and cell phone samples, calling was conducted during the day and evening as well as on weekends, abiding by the hours and call-back procedures stipulated in the Standards for the Conduct of Government of Canada Public Opinion Research.
  • A minimum of eight call-backs were attempted to reach potential landline respondents before a sample record was retired. A minimum of five call-backs were attempted for the cell phone sample.

The data collection was conducted in accordance with the standards set out by industry associations as well as applicable federal legislation, including the Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act, Canada's private-sector privacy law.

Response Rate

The following table presents information about the final call dispositions for this survey and calculation of the response rate:

  Landline Cell Total
Total numbers attempted 16,938 970 17,908
Out of scope – invalid 1,825 44 1,869
Unresolved (U) 8,139 229 8,368
No answer/Answering machine 8,139 229 8,368
In scope – non-responding (IS) 5,596 217 5,813
Language barrier/illness/incapable 483 4 487
Call-back (respondent not available) 21 1 22
Refusal (household) 4,381 160 4,541
Refusal (respondent) 711 52 763
In scope – responding units (R) 1,378 480 1,858
Completed interview 555 249 804
Terminate quota filled 49 6 55
NQ – Does not qualify 774 225 999
Response rate 9.1% 51.8% 11.6%

The response rate formula is calculated as follows: [R=R/(U+IS+R)]. This means that the response rate is calculated as the number of responding units [R] divided by the number of unresolved [U] numbers plus in-scope [IS] non-responding households and individuals plus responding units [R].

Survey Weighting and Non-response Bias

To produce population estimates, the survey data were weighted to accurately reflect the age and gender distribution of eligible electors in the federal ridings. Specifically, the nested census populations of men and women residing in the district who were 18–24, 25–34, 35–44, 45–64, and 65 or older (at the time of the research) were compiled as the weighting frame. The survey results were then compared to the same age and gender proportions to generate the survey weights. Any respondents who refused to provide their age were given a neutral weight so as not to skew the weighting proportions. Weights were based on 2016 Statistics Canada census data.

The table below shows the unweighted and weighted proportions for the variables used to create the weights:

  Unweighted Weighted
Base 804 804
Gender
Male 46% 49%
Female 52% 50%
Non-binary/transgender 0% 0%
Preferred not to answer 1% 1%
Age
18 to 24 5% 10%
25 to 34 9% 23%
35 to 44 13% 17%
45 to 64 41% 29%
65 or older 26% 16%
Preferred not to answer 6% 6%

2. Survey Questionnaire

Intro

Phone Intro

Good afternoon/evening. My name is … and I am calling from […], a public opinion research company. Today we are conducting a study on behalf of Elections Canada. Please be assured that we are not selling or soliciting anything.

[If asked]: The survey will take about 15 minutes to complete.

[If asked about the legitimacy of the survey]: If you would like to ensure that this survey is run by Elections Canada, you can call their toll-free number at 1-800-463-6868. Their hours of operation are Monday to Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Eastern time).

You can also contact Alethea Woods from Phoenix Strategic Perspectives at 613-260-1700.

[If asked about the National Do Not Call List]: Calls made for the purpose of market research, polls or surveys are not considered telemarketing calls. Organizations making these types of calls are not required to register with the National Do Not Call List. The National Do Not Call List toll-free telephone number is 1-866-580-3625.

[If asked about Elections Canada]: The toll-free telephone number for Elections Canada is 1-800-463-6868. Their hours of operation are Monday to Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Eastern time).

A. Landline Protocol

I would like to speak to the person in your household who is a Canadian citizen, is at least 18 years old, and who has had the most recent birthday. Would that be you?

If person selected is not available, arrange for call-back.

If person selected is not available over interview period, ask for person with next most recent birthday and go to scr1.

If in doubt, confirm whether respondent would like to be interviewed in english or french.

PRIV

Please note that this call may be recorded for quality control or training purposes and all personal information collected will be held in strict confidence. Responses are used only for research and statistical purposes. The anonymized database of all responses may be shared with researchers who collaborate with Elections Canada.

SCR1

May I confirm that you are a Canadian citizen?

If no: This survey must be completed by Canadian citizens. Would there be someone in your household who is a Canadian citizen? If yes, ask to speak to that person.

  • 01 Yes
  • 02 No Go to thnk2
SCR2

May I confirm that you were at least 18 years old on October 26, 2020?

If no: This survey must be completed by Canadian citizens who were at least 18 years old on October 26, 2020. Would there be someone in your household who was at least 18 years old on October 26, 2020? If yes, ask to speak to that person.

  • 01 Yes
  • 02 No Go to thnk2

SCR3 age

In what year were you born?

  • 01 _
  • 02 Don't know/Refusal

SCR3B check eligibility 2019

SCR3 is 2001

In what month and on what day were you born?

If asked why: This is to verify whether you had been eligible to vote in a federal election prior to the October 26, 2020, by-election.

Record the two answers

  • SCR3 = Month: _
  • SCR3A = Day: _
  • 00 Don't know/Refusal

SCR4 residence

Between September 23, 2020 and October 26, did you live in the federal riding of Toronto Centre {or} York Centre?

If no: Unfortunately, this survey must be completed by Canadian citizens who lived in this riding and were eligible to vote in the October 26, 2020, by-election. Thank and discontinue.

If answers spontaneously that lived in riding for only part of revision period: Unfortunately, this survey must be completed by Canadian citizens who lived in this riding for the entire revision period (September 23 through October 26, 2020), and were eligible to vote in the October 26, 2020, by-election. Thank and discontinue.

If unsure: review list of communities in the riding with respondent to determine if he/she was a resident of the riding. If so, continue. If not, discontinue using language in code 02. List of communities attached.

If unsure (2): interviewer to use elections canada's online voter information service to verify riding by postal code (http://www.elections.ca/scripts/vis/finded).

  • 01 Yes
  • 02 No Go to thnk2

B. Cell Protocol

I would like to speak to someone who is a Canadian citizen and is at least 18 years old. Does that describe you?

If person is not available, arrange for call-back.

If person is not available over interview period, thank and discontinue.

If in doubt, confirm whether respondent would like to be interviewed in english or french.

PRIV

Thank you. Please note that this call may be recorded for quality control or training purposes and all personal information collected will be held in strict confidence. Responses are used only for statistical purposes.

SCR1

May I confirm that you are a Canadian citizen?

If NO: This survey must be completed by Canadian citizens. Thank and discontinue.

  • 01 Yes
  • 02 No Go to thnk2
SCR2

May I confirm that you were at least 18 years old on October 26, 2020?

If NO: This survey must be completed by Canadian citizens who were at least 18 years old on October 26, 2020. Thank and discontinue.

  • 01 Yes
  • 02 No Go to thnk2
SCR3 age

In what year were you born?

  • 01 _
  • 00 Don't know/Refusal
SCR3B check eligibility 2019

SCR3 is 2001

In what month and on what day were you born?

If asked why: This is to verify whether you had been eligible to vote in a federal election prior to the October 26, 2020, by-election.

Record the two answers

  • SCR3 = Month: _
  • SCR3A = Day: _
  • 00 Don't know/Refusal
SCR4 residence

Between September 23 and October 26, 2020, did you live in the federal riding of Toronto Centre {or} York Centre?

If no: Unfortunately, this survey must be completed by Canadian citizens who lived in this riding and were eligible to vote in the October 26, 2020, by-election. Thank and discontinue.

If answers spontaneously that lived in riding for only part of revision period: Unfortunately, this survey must be completed by Canadian citizens who lived in this riding for the entire revision period (September 23 through October 26, 2020), and were eligible to vote in the October 26, 2020, by-election. Thank and discontinue

If unsure: review list of communities in the riding with respondent to determine if he/she was a resident of the riding. If so, continue. If not, discontinue using language in code 02. List of communities attached.

If unsure (2): interviewer to use Elections Canada's online Voter Information Service to verify riding by postal code (http://www.elections.ca/scripts/vis/finded).

  • 01 Yes
  • 02 No Go to thnk2
Q1 Know election

Did you know that a federal by-election took place on October 26, 2020, in your riding?

Do not read

If no: confirm once again if the respondent was living in the federal district (i.e. not just the city), using the geographic boundary description provided ("map").

  • 01 Yes
  • 02 No Go to Q8
  • 98 Don't know Go to Q8
  • 99 Refusal Go to Q8
Q2 voted or not

Many people don't or can't vote for a variety of reasons. This is particularly true for by-elections, where voter turnout is often much lower than in general elections. Which of the following statement describes you?

  • 01 I did not vote in the election
  • 02 I thought about voting this time but didn't vote
  • 03 I usually vote but didn't this time
  • 04 I am sure I voted in the election

Do not read

  • 98 Don't know
  • 99 Refusal
Q3 reason no vote

Q2 is 01 or 02 or 03

What is the main reason you did not vote?

Do not read - Code 1 answer

Everyday life or health reasons

  • 01 Too busy
  • 02 Out of town
  • 03 illness or disability

Pandemic-related reasons

  • 04 Did not feel safe/comfortable going to vote due to COVID-19
  • 05 Did not believe an election should have taken place during the pandemic
  • 06 Myself, or a loved one, had to quarantine due to COVID-19

Political reasons

  • 07 Not interested in politics
  • 08 Lack of information about campaign issues and parties' positions
  • 09 Did not like candidates/parties/campaign
  • 10 Felt voting would not make a difference
  • 11 Did not know who to vote for

Electoral process-related reasons

  • 12 Could not prove identity or address
  • 13 Not on voters list
  • 14 Transportation problem/polling station too far
  • 15 Lack of information about the voting process (e.g. when/where to vote)
  • 16 Lineups were too long
  • 17 Issues with the voter information card
  • 18 Missed the mail-in ballot deadline

All other reasons

  • 19 Forgot to vote
  • 20 Religious or other beliefs
  • 21 Other reason (specify)
  • 98 Don't know
  • 99 Refusal
Q3A missing ID

Q3 IS 12 (Failed ID Requirements)

Which pieces of identification or documentation were you missing?

Read if necessary – Code up to 3 answers

  • 01 Document with your photo
  • 02 Document with your name
  • 03 Document with your address
  • 04 No identification pieces
  • 77 Other (specify) _

Do not read

  • 98 Don't know
  • 99 Refusal
Q3B out of town

Q3 is 02 (Out of town)

Were you out of town for work or personal reasons?

  • 01 Work
  • 02 Personal reasons
  • 03 Other (specify) _

Do not read

  • 99 Refusal

If respondent asks why

Elections Canada is working to improve its services for electors who are out of town on voting days.

Q3C unplanned

Q3 is 02 (Out of town)

Would you say that your travel was planned or unplanned?

  • 01 Planned
  • 02 Unplanned

Do not read

  • 99 Refusal

If respondent asks what is meant by unplanned

This means that the trip was not planned in advance—for example, you knew that you were leaving less than a week before you left.

If respondent asks why we want to know

Elections Canada is working to improve its services for electors who are out of town on voting days.

Q3D too busy forced choice

If Q3 is 01

I noted that you were too busy to vote. If you had to choose, which of the following most closely reflects your situation? Would it be…

Read; rotate items

  • 01 There isn't time in my normal daily schedule to vote
  • 02 Something unexpected came up and I had to change my plans
  • 03 I had other priorities that day
  • 04 Other [open-ended]

Do not read

  • 99 Refusal
Q3E Illness or disability (COVID-19)

If Q3 is 03

I noted that you could not vote due to an illness or disability. Was this related to COVID-19 in any way?

Read

  • 01 Yes
  • 02 No

Do not read

  • 99 Refusal
Q3F Pandemic-related reasons

If Q3 is 04

I noted that you did not vote for a pandemic-related reason. Is there anything that Elections Canada could have done to make you feel safer to vote during this pandemic?

Do not read

  • 01 Yes: specify: [TEXT]
  • 02 No
  • 99 Refusal
PQ4

I would like to ask a few questions about the information you may have received in advance of the by-election.

Q4 VIC

During the campaign, did you receive a voter information card addressed to you personally and telling you where and when to vote?

Do not read

  • 01 Yes
  • 02 No
  • 98 Don't know
  • 99 Refusal
Q5 name on vic

Q4 is 01

Was your name correct on the card you received?

Do not read

  • 01 Yes
  • 02 No
  • 98 Don't know
  • 99 Refusal
Q6 address on vic

Q4 is 01

And was your address correct on the card?

Do not read

  • 01 Yes
  • 02 No
  • 98 Don't know
  • 99 Refusal
Q7 ensure registration

Q4 IS 02 OR 98 OR 99

What did you do to find out whether you were registered to vote in this by-election?

Do not read. Code up to 3 answers

Interviewers: if respondent says he/she went online/checked website (code 04), also probe for use of online voter registration service (code 06).

  • 01 Did nothing
  • 02 Found out at the polling station/local Elections Canada Office
  • 03 Called 1-800 number of Elections Canada
  • 04 Consulted the Elections Canada website
  • 05 Informed the revising agent who came to my home
  • 06 Used Online Voter Registration Service on Elections Canada website
  • 07 Learned from revising agent who came to my home
  • 08 Learned from my voter information card
  • 77 Other (specify): _
  • 98 Don't know
  • 99 Refusal
PQ8

Now, I would like to ask you a few questions about voting in the by-election…

Q8 need to be registered

To the best of your knowledge, do electors need to be registered on the list of electors to vote in a Canadian federal election?

If asked: This means that your name is on the list of electors.

Do not read

  • 01 Yes
  • 02 No
  • 98 Don't know
  • 99 Refusal
Q9
Q9A election day registration

If Q8 is 01

You are right, electors must be registered to vote in a federal election. If an elector is not registered on election day and wants to vote, can they register at the polling place and then vote immediately after?

Do not read

  • 01 Yes
  • 02 No
  • 98 Don't know
  • 99 Refusal
Q9B election day registration

IF Q8 IS 02 (No), 98 (don't know) OR 99 (Refusal)

Actually, electors do need to be registered to vote in a federal election. If an elector is not registered on election day and wants to vote, can they register at the polling place and then vote immediately after?

Do not read

  • 01 Yes
  • 02 No
  • 98 Don't know
  • 99 Refusal
Q10 register online

To the best of your knowledge, is it possible for Canadian electors to check, update, or complete their voter registration on Elections Canada's website?

Do not read

  • 01 Yes
  • 02 No
  • 98 Don't know
  • 99 Refusal

Split sample 50/50

Q11 Ways to vote

To the best of your knowledge, what are the current ways that electors can vote in a federal election? Do not read – select all that apply (multiple mentions). Probe carefully to avoid suggesting answers which would give away the list. After each answer, probe "Anything else?"

  • 01 In person at a polling station on election day
  • 02 At advance polls, in person
  • 03 By mail (either within Canada or outside Canada)
  • 04 At a local Elections Canada office/office of the returning officer, before election day
  • 05 At home (for electors with a disability)
  • 06 Mobile polls (including for members of Canadian Forces, prisons, long-term care facilities)
  • 97 Other, please specify _
  • 98 Don't know
  • 99 Refusal

Notes:

If respondent simply says "Polling station," probe "Could you please be more specific – about when would that be?"

If respondent says "Prior to election day," ask for clarification: "Could you please be more specific?" as 02, 03 and 04 can be prior to election day, see chart.

If respondent says "Online," probe to find out if they refer to casting a vote online or to ordering a ballot kit online to vote by mail.

If respondent asks for clarification regarding answer b "At the local Elections Canada office" say: "Whenever there is an election, the official in charge of conducting the election in a riding opens an office. That office is open to the public for the duration of the campaign. Is it possible to vote there?"

Ways When How
On Election Day On Election Day (Monday October 26) In person, at a polling station
Advance polls A full week before the election, from Friday to Monday In person, at a polling station
By mail From the day the election is called until the Tuesday before the election By getting a special ballot kit:
  • online through the EC website
  • at the local EC office
  • at any Canadian embassy, high commission, or consulate
At a local EC office/ office of the returning officer From the day the election is called until the Tuesday before the election Electors can vote at any time during the campaign by going to the local EC office. Common among those who are away for advance polls and polling day.
At home From the day the election is called until the Tuesday before the election EC offers voting at home in the presence of an election officer and a witness for voters with a disability or an illness. There are specific circumstances a voter must meet, uncommon.
Mobile polls From the day the election is called until the Tuesday before the election Mobile polls are set up with a returning officer to visit electors in difficult to reach locations such as Canadian Forces bases, prisons, long-term care facilities, and very remote communities.
Q11B Ways to vote

If someone wants to vote in a federal election, how can they do so? Anything else? Do not read – select all that apply (multiple mentions). If someone says "you go in person/at the polling station" code as 01 and ask q11c.

  • 01 In person at a polling station on election day
  • 02 At advance polls, in person
  • 03 By mail (either within Canada or outside Canada)
  • 04 At a local Elections Canada office/office of the returning officer, before election day
  • 05 At home (for electors with a disability)
  • 06 Mobile polls (including for members of Canadian Forces, prisons, long-term care facilities)
  • 97 Other, please specify _
  • 98 Don't know
  • 99 Refusal
Q11C: ways to vote 2

Now let's say someone wants to vote but is not available on election day, are there ways to cast a ballot ahead of time? IF SOMEONE JUST SAYS "Yes," Ask "OK, how would you do that?"

  • 02 At advance polls, in person
  • 03 By mail (either within Canada or outside Canada)
  • 04 At a local Elections Canada office/office of the returning officer, before election day
  • 05 At home (for electors with a disability)
  • 06 Mobile polls (including for members of Canadian Forces, prisons, long-term care facilities)
  • 07 No
  • 97 Other, please specify _
  • 98 Don't know
  • 99 Refusal
Q12 where did you vote

Q2 is 04

Which method did you use to vote? Was it…

Read in order until respondent provides a response – code one answer only

  • 01 At the polling station on election day on October 26, 2020?
  • 02 At the advance polling station (on October 16, 17, 18, or 19, 2020)?
  • 03 At the local Elections Canada office before election day?
  • 04 By mail?
  • 05 At home (if disabled)

Do not read

  • 77 Other (specify) _
  • 98 Don't know
  • 99 Refusal

If respondent asks for clarification at answer 03 "At the local Elections Canada office"

Whenever there is an election, the official in charge of conducting the election in a riding opens an office. That office is open to the public for the duration of the campaign. Did you vote there before election day?

If respondents say they voted online, ask for clarification. Voters with a disability can register online to receive a ballot in the mail which can be completed in their home and mailed in. These mentions should be coded as: 05 – AT HOME.

Q12A vote by mail

Q12 is 04

Why did you choose to vote by mail?

[Open-ended]

[Note to interviewer: In this case, we are looking in particular for those who chose to vote by mail due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but do not prompt the respondent with this.]

Q13 easy to vote

Q2 is 04

Q12 is not 98 or 99

Overall, how easy was it to vote? Would you say it was…?

Read

  • 01 Very easy
  • 02 Somewhat easy
  • 03 Somewhat difficult
  • 04 Very difficult

Do not read

  • 98 Don't know
  • 99 Refusal
Q14

Split sample 50/50 between Q14A and Q14B+Q15

Q14A Proof ID address

In order to vote at a federal election, must electors provide…

  • 01 A proof of identity
  • 02 A proof of address
  • 03 Both
  • 04 Neither

Do not read

  • 98 Don't know
  • 99 Refusal
Q14B proof ID

Random rotate Q14b with Q15 – Please use a flag variable for identification of 1st and 2nd

To the best of your knowledge, do voters have to present a proof of IDENTITY in order to vote in a Canadian federal election?

Do not read

  • 01 Yes
  • 02 No
  • 98 Don't know
  • 99 Refusal
Q15 Proof address

Random rotate Q15 with Q14B – please use a flag variable for identification of 1st and 2nd

To the best of your knowledge, do voters have to present a proof of ADDRESS in order to vote in a Canadian federal election?

Do not read

  • 01 Yes
  • 02 No
  • 98 Don't know
  • 99 Refusal

Q1 is 02 or 98 or 99; Go to PS1 (Socio-demographic)

Q12 is 04, 05, 77, 98 or 99; Go to PQ28

Q2 is 01 or 02 or 03; Go to PQ28

Q2 is 04

Q16 Easy proof ID

Overall, how easy was it to meet the identification requirements? Would you say that it was…?

Read scale. Note: This question refers to Respondent's own experience

  • 01 Very easy
  • 02 Somewhat easy
  • 03 Somewhat difficult
  • 04 Very difficult

Do not read

  • 98 Don't know
  • 99 Refusal
Q17 Distance to poll

Was the (answer underline at Q12: 01 polling station, 02 advance polls, 03 local Elections Canada office) at a convenient distance from your home?

Do not read

  • 01 Yes
  • 02 No
  • 98 Don't know
  • 99 Refusal
Q18 difficulty reaching building

Insert based on Q12 response of 1, 2 or 3

1 = polling station

2 = advance polling station

3 = local Elections Canada office

Did you have any difficulty reaching the _?

Do not read. Question refers to difficulty getting to the building.

  • 01 Yes
  • 02 No
  • 98 Don't know
  • 99 Refusal
Q18B what was difficult

Q18 is 01

Could you briefly describe the main difficulty in reaching the (answers underlined at Q12: 01 polling station, 02 advance polling station, or 03 local Elections Canada office)?

Do not read – Code up to 3 answers

  • 01 Physical accessibility
  • 02 Polling station address difficult to find
  • 03 Room inside the building difficult to find
  • 04 Not enough parking
  • 05 Wrong information on my voter information card (i.e., wrong polling station address)
  • 06 Imprecise signage (interior/exterior)
  • 77 Other (specify) _
  • 98 Don't know
  • 99 Refusal
Q19 Building adequate

Would you say that the building where you voted was…?

Read scale

  • 01 Very suitable
  • 02 Somewhat suitable
  • 03 Not very suitable
  • 04 Not suitable at all

Do not read

  • 98 Don't know
  • 99 Refusal
Q20 pandemic measures

When thinking about the safety measures in place at the (answers underlined at Q12: 01 polling station, 02 advance polling station, or 03 local Elections Canada office) in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, would you say that they made you feel…

Read scale

  • 01 Very safe
  • 02 Somewhat safe
  • 03 Somewhat unsafe
  • 04 Very unsafe

Do not read

  • 98 Don't know
  • 99 Refusal
Q20A

If Q20=03 or 04

Could you briefly describe the reasons for which you did not feel safe with regards to the COVID-19 measures in place?

Do not read – Code up to 3

  • 01 Too many people in the building
  • 02 EC staff was not respecting guidelines
  • 03 Not everyone was wearing masks
  • 04 No hand sanitizer available
  • 05 People not respecting physical distancing
  • 06 Had to share objects (pencils, tables, etc.)
  • 07 No early voting hours available for electors at risk
  • 08 No plexiglass in the building
  • 77 Other (specify) _
  • 98 Don't know
  • 99 Refusal
Q21 signage

Once inside, were there enough signs to help you find where to go for voting?

Do not read

  • 01 Yes
  • 02 No
  • 98 Don't know
  • 99 Refusal
Q22 bring VIC

If Q4 is 01

Did you bring your voter information card with you to the (answer underlined at Q12: 01 polling station, 02 advance polling station, or 03 local Elections Canada office)?

Do not read. Code one answer only

  • 01 Yes
  • 02 No
  • 98 Don't know
  • 99 Refusal
Q23 vote schedule

Do you remember approximately what time it was when you went to vote?

Do not read

IF Q12 = 01 election day

Read only if necessary; code only one response

  • 01 NA: Opening hours start at 8:30 a.m.
  • 02 Between 8:30 and 9 a.m.
  • 03 Between 9 and 10 a.m.
  • 04 Between 10 and 11 a.m.
  • 05 Between 11 and noon
  • 06 Between noon and 1 p.m.
  • 07 Between 1 and 2 p.m.
  • 08 Between 2 and 3 p.m.
  • 09 Between 3 and 4 p.m.
  • 10 Between 4 and 5 p.m.
  • 11 Between 5 and 6 p.m.
  • 12 Between 6 and 7 p.m.
  • 13 Between 7 and 8 p.m.
  • 14 Between 8 and 8:30 p.m.
  • 15 NA: Closing of the polls is at 8:30 p.m.
  • 98 Don't know
  • 99 Refusal

If Q12 = 02 Advance polls

Read only if necessary; code only one response

  • 01 NA: Opening hours start at 12 p.m.
  • 02 NA: Opening hours start at 12 p.m.
  • 03 NA: Opening hours start at 12 p.m.
  • 04 NA: Opening hours start at 12 p.m.
  • 05 NA: Opening hours start at 12.p.m.
  • 06 Between noon and 1 p.m.
  • 07 Between 1 and 2 p.m.
  • 08 Between 2 and 3 p.m.
  • 09 Between 3 and 4 p.m.
  • 10 Between 4 and 5 p.m.
  • 11 Between 5 and 6 p.m.
  • 12 Between 6 and 7 p.m.
  • 13 Between 7 and 8 p.m. inclusively
  • 14 NA: Closing of the polls is at 8 p.m.
  • 15 NA: Closing of the polls is at 8 p.m.
  • 98 Don't know
  • 99 Refusal
Q23A weekday or weekend

IF Q12 = 03 (Local EC Office)

The local Elections Canada offices have different schedules on different days. Do you remember if you voted on a weekday or on a weekend?

Do not read

  • 01 Weekday
  • 02 Weekend
  • 99 Refusal

If respondent does not remember, code under weekday.

IF Q23A = 01 or 99 (Weekday or Refusal)

Read only if necessary; code only one response

  • 01 NA: Opening hours start at 9 a.m.
  • 02 NA: Opening hours start at 9 a.m.
  • 03 Between 9 and 10 a.m.
  • 04 Between 10 and 11 a.m.
  • 05 Between 11 and noon
  • 06 Between noon and 1 p.m.
  • 07 Between 1 and 2 p.m.
  • 08 Between 2 and 3 p.m.
  • 09 Between 3 and 4 p.m.
  • 10 Between 4 and 5 p.m.
  • 11 Between 5 and 6 p.m.
  • 12 Between 6 and 7 p.m.
  • 13 Between 7 and 8 p.m.
  • 14 Between 8 and 9 p.m.
  • 15 NA: Closing of the polls is at 9 p.m.
  • 98 Don't know
  • 99 Refusal

IF Q23A = 02 Weekend

Read only if necessary; code only one response

  • 01 NA: Opening hours start at 9 a.m.
  • 02 NA: Opening hours start at 9 a.m.
  • 03 Between 9 and 10 a.m.
  • 04 Between 10 and 11 a.m.
  • 05 Between 11 and noon
  • 06 Between noon and 1 p.m.
  • 07 Between 1 and 2 p.m.
  • 08 Between 2 and 3 p.m.
  • 09 Between 3 and 4 p.m.
  • 10 Between 4 and 5 p.m.
  • 11 Between 5 and 6 p.m.
  • 12 NA: Closing of the polls is at 6 p.m.
  • 13 NA: Closing of the polls is at 6 p.m.
  • 14 NA: Closing of the polls is at 6 p.m.
  • 15 NA: Closing of the polls is at 6 p.m.
  • 98 Don't know
  • 99 Refusal
Q24 vote duration

To the best of your knowledge, how long did it take you to vote at the… Q12: 01 polling station, 02 advance polling station, or 03 local Elections Canada office? This does not include travel time.

Do not read; Record time in minutes

  • 01 [Open-ended question]
  • 98 Don't know
  • 99 Refusal
Q25 reasonable time

Would you say that this was a reasonable amount of time?

Do not read. Question refers to time spent to vote

  • 01 Yes
  • 02 No
  • 98 Don't know
  • 99 Refusal
Q26 official language

Voters can choose to be served in either official language, English or French. In which language were you served?

Do not read. Code one answer only

  • 01 English
  • 02 French
  • 03 In both official languages (English and French)
  • 04 Other (specify) _
  • 98 Don't know
  • 99 Refusal
Q27 satisfied language

Were you satisfied with the official language in which you were served?

Do not read

  • 01 Yes, satisfied
  • 02 No, not satisfied
  • 98 Don't know
  • 99 Refusal
Q28 satisfied services

Overall, how satisfied were you with the services provided by Elections Canada staff when you voted? Would you say that you were…?

Read. Question refers to services provided by elections canada staff present at the Q12: 01 polling station, 02 advance polling station, or 03 local Elections Canada office

  • 01 Very satisfied
  • 02 Somewhat satisfied
  • 03 Somewhat dissatisfied
  • 04 Very dissatisfied

Do not read

  • 98 Don't know
  • 99 Refusal
Q28B – why dissatisfied

If Q27 is 03 or 04

Is there a specific reason why you were not satisfied with the services provided by Elections Canada staff?

[open-ended]

[If asked about complaints mechanisms]: If you would like to lodge a complaint with Elections Canada, you can call their toll-free number at 1-800-463-6868. Their hours of operation are Monday to Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Eastern time). You can also use the contact form on their website at www.elections.ca and click on Contact us on the right-hand corner.

PQ29

I would now like to ask you some questions about the level of information that you received during this by-election…

Q29 well informed

Overall, how well informed did you feel you were about how, when, and where to vote? Would you say that you were…?

Read scale

  • 01 Very informed
  • 02 Somewhat informed
  • 03 Somewhat uninformed
  • 04 Very uninformed

Do not read

  • 98 Don't know
  • 99 Refusal

Q30 & Q31 split sample 50/50 between Q30A/D and Q31A/D

Q31A to D advertising where, when, ways

During the by-election campaign, have you seen or heard advertising from Elections Canada about where, when, and how to vote:

Rotate Q30A to Q30D

Q30A social media

…on social media such as Facebook, Instagram, or YouTube?

Do not read

  • 01 Yes
  • 02 No
  • 98 Don't know
  • 99 Refusal
Q30B web advertisements

… when you were browsing or on a mobile application?

Do not read. Includes mentions of online newspapers and articles, "On my phone," weather network.

  • 01 Yes
  • 02 No
  • 98 Don't know
  • 99 Refusal
Q30C radio

… on the radio or an audio platform (such as Spotify)?

Do not read

  • 01 Yes
  • 02 No
  • 98 Don't know
  • 99 Refusal
Q30D local newspaper

… in a local newspaper?

Do not read

  • 01 Yes
  • 02 No
  • 98 Don't know
  • 99 Refusal
Q30E other

… in any other format?

Do not read

  • 01 Yes [Open-ended question]

Q30A to D advertising COVID-19 safety measures

During the by-election campaign, have you seen or heard advertising from Elections Canada about COVID-19 safety measures in place at the polls:

Rotate Q31A to Q31D

Q31A social media

…on social media such as Facebook, Instagram, or YouTube?

Do not read

  • 01 Yes
  • 02 No
  • 98 Don't know
  • 99 Refusal
Q31B web advertisements

… when you were browsing or on a mobile application?

Do not read. Includes mentions of online newspapers and articles, "On my phone," weather network.

  • 01 Yes
  • 02 No
  • 98 Don't know
  • 99 Refusal
Q31C radio

… on the radio or an audio platform (such as Spotify)?

Do not read

  • 01 Yes
  • 02 No
  • 98 Don't know
  • 99 Refusal
Q31D local newspaper

… in a local newspaper?

Do not read

  • 01 Yes
  • 02 No
  • 98 Don't know
  • 99 Refusal
Q31E other

… in any other format?

Do not read

  • 01 Yes [Open-ended question]
Q31F Recall explained

IF Q31A/Q31D IS 01

What do you recall about the safety measures mentioned in the ads?

Do not read

  • 01 Poll workers will be wearing protective equipment
  • 02 Hand sanitizer stations
  • 03 Clear physical distancing markers (2 metres)
  • 04 Only one poll worker per desk
  • 05 Wear a mask
  • 06 Single-use pencils
  • 07 Other (specify) _
  • 98 Don't know
  • 99 Refusal
Q32
Q32 EC website

Did you visit Elections Canada's website during the campaign?

Do not read

  • 01 Yes
  • 02 No
  • 98 Don't know
  • 99 Refusal
Q33 satisfied EC website

Q32 is 01

Overall, how satisfied were you with the information on Elections Canada's website? Would you say that you were…?

Read scale

  • 01 Very satisfied
  • 02 Somewhat satisfied
  • 03 Somewhat dissatisfied
  • 04 Very dissatisfied

Do not read

  • 98 Don't know
  • 99 Refusal
Q34 contact EC

Did you contact Elections Canada during the campaign?

Do not read

  • 01 Yes
  • 02 No
  • 98 Don't know
  • 99 Refusal
Q35 satisfied contact EC

Q34 is 01

Overall, how satisfied were you with the information provided when you contacted Elections Canada? Would you say that you were…?

Read scale

  • 01 Very satisfied
  • 02 Somewhat satisfied
  • 03 Somewhat dissatisfied
  • 04 Very dissatisfied

Do not read

  • 98 Don't know
  • 99 Refusal
Q36 satisfied voting

Q2 is 04

Split sample random rotate q36a and q36b – please use a flag variable for identification of 1st and 2nd

Q36A Bipolar

Overall, how satisfied were you with your voting experience? Would you say that you were…?

Read scale

  • 01 Very satisfied
  • 02 Somewhat satisfied
  • 03 Somewhat dissatisfied
  • 04 Very dissatisfied

Do not read

  • 98 Don't know
  • 99 Refusal
Q36B Unipolar

Overall, how satisfied were you with your voting experience? Would you say that you were…?

Read scale

  • 01 Very satisfied
  • 02 Somewhat satisfied
  • 03 Somewhat dissatisfied
  • 04 Very dissatisfied

Do not read

  • 98 Don't know
  • 99 Refusal

Split sample 50/50 as follows:

  1. Split sample Q37A and Q37B
  2. Split sample Q38A and Q38B
  3. Randomize the order of those two questions; half get Q37 first and half get Q38 first

Please use a flag variable for identification of the split and the order of the split (Q37 first or Q38 first).

Q37A ran fairly this by-election

Thinking about the October 26, 2020, federal by-election, would you say that Elections Canada ran the election…?

Emphasize "Elections Canada"

Read scale

  • 01 Very fairly
  • 02 Somewhat fairly
  • 03 Somewhat unfairly
  • 04 Very unfairly

Do not read

  • 98 Don't know
  • 99 Refusal
Q37B ran fairly general

Thinking about federal by-elections in general, would you say that Elections Canada runs elections…?

Emphasize "Elections Canada"

Read scale

  • 01 Very fairly
  • 02 Somewhat fairly
  • 03 Somewhat unfairly
  • 04 Very unfairly

Do not read

  • 98 Don't know
  • 99 Refusal
Q37C why not trust

Q37A or 37B is 03 or 04

Is there a specific reason as to why you think Elections Canada runs the election unfairly?

Do not read

  • 01 [Open-ended question]
  • 98 Don't know
  • 99 Refusal
Q38A trust results

What level of trust do you have in the accuracy of the election results in your riding? Is it…?

Read scale

  • 01 Very high
  • 02 Somewhat high
  • 03 Somewhat low
  • 04 Very low

Do not read

  • 98 Don't know
  • 99 Refusal
Q38B trust results with intro

At the end of a federal election, poll workers in each riding count ballots by hand and report the results to Elections Canada. What level of trust do you have in the accuracy of the election results? Is it…?

Read scale

  • 01 Very high
  • 02 Somewhat high
  • 03 Somewhat low
  • 04 Very low

Do not read

  • 98 Don't know
  • 99 Refusal
Q38C why not trust

Q38A or Q38B is 03 or 04

Is there a specific reason as to why your level of trust is low when it comes to the accuracy of the election results in your riding?

Do not read

  • 01 [Open-ended question]
  • 98 Don't know
  • 99 Refusal
PS1

Before ending, I would like to ask you a few questions about you and your household for statistical purposes only. Please be assured that your answers will remain completely confidential.

S1 gender

For the purposes of this survey, could you please provide your gender? Read list.

  • 01 Male
  • 02 Female
  • 97 Or please specify. [Text]
  • 99 [Do not read] Refusal
S2 language

What language do you speak most often at home? Read list.

  • 01 English
  • 02 French
  • 97 Or please specify. [Text]
  • 98 Don't know
  • 99 Refusal
S3A Are you of First Nations, Métis, or Inuit descent?

[Do not read list; if multiple identities, ask "Which do you primarily identify as"]

  • 01 First Nations
  • 02 Métis
  • 03 Inuit
  • 04 No
  • 98 Don't know
  • 99 Refusal
S3 ethnic

S3A is 04, 98, 99

What is your ethnic or cultural background?

[Do not read. Accept only one reply; use 97 for mixed/multiple ethnicities.]

Group Includes
01 White/Caucasian English-Canadian, French-Canadian, Quebecois and non-visible minority (includes English, Irish, Scottish, German, French, Italian)
02 Chinese China, Hong Kong, Taiwan
03 East Asian Japanese, Korean
04 South Asian/East Indian Bangladeshi, Bengali, Bruneian, Gujarati, East Indian, Indo Pakistani, Mauritian, Mayotte, Mongolian, Pakistani, Punjabi, Singhalese, Sri Lankan, Tamil
05 South East Asian Vietnamese, Cambodian, Malaysian, Laotian, Indonesian, Singaporean, Burmese, Kampuchean, Thai
06 Filipino
07 Black (Africa, Caribbean) Angolan, Anguillan, Antiguan, Aruba/Netherlands Antilles, Bahamian, Barbadian, Belizean, Beninese, Bermudan, Botswanan, Burkinabe, Burundian, Cameroonian, Cape Verde Islands, Cayman Islands, Central African, Chadian, Comoros Islands, Congolais, Dominican, Equatorial Guinean, Ethiopian, Gabonese, Gambian, Ghanaian, Grenadian, Guadeloupian, Guinean, Guinea-Bissauan, Guyanese, Haitian, Ivorian, Jamaican, Kenyan, Lesothan, Liberian, Malagasy, Malawian, Malian, Martinican/French Guiana, Montserratan, Mozambican, Namibian, Nevisitian, Nigerois, Nigerian, Rwandan, Vicentian/Grenadines, Saint Lucian, Senegalese, Trinidadian, Tobagonian, West Indian, other Caribbean, other African
08 Latin American All Central and South American countries, Mexico, Cuba, Puerto Rico.
09 West Asian/North African/Arab Afghan, Algerian, Armenian, Bahrain, Bhutanese, Egyptian, Iranian, Iraqi, Israeli, Jordanian, Kurdish, Kuwaiti, Lebanese, Libyan, Maghrebi origins, Mauritanian, Moroccan, Nepalese, Omani, Palestinian, Yemenite, Saudi Arabian, Syrian, Turk
10 Pacific Islands Fijian, Melanesian, Micronesian, Polynesian, Tongan, Tuvaluan, Wake Island, Samoan, American Samoa, Coral Sea Islands Territory, Kiribatian, Nauruan, Norfolk Island, Northern Mariana Island, Tokelau, Pitcairn Islands, Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands, Vanuatuan, Wallis and Futuna Islands, Cook Islands, Johnston Atoll, Guam, Midway Islands, New Caledonian
97 Other visible minorities or mixed ethnicity, please specify Record _
98 Don't know
99 Refusal

[Web List]

  • Caucasian/European
  • Latino/Hispanic
  • Middle Eastern
  • African
  • Caribbean
  • South Asian
  • East Asian
  • Other. Please specify: [Text]
  • Prefer not to say

Split sample 50/50

S3A is 04, 98, 99

S4
S4A visible minority a

Are you a member of a visible minority group?

Do not read

  • 01 Yes
  • 02 No
  • 98 Don't know
  • 99 Refusal

If the respondent doesn't know what that means: Under the Employment Equity Act, visible minorities are people, other than Indigenous peoples, who are not white or Caucasian.

S4B visible minority b

Do you consider yourself to be a member of a visible minority group?

Do not read

  • 01 Yes
  • 02 No
  • 98 Don't know
  • 99 Refusal
S5 country birth

In what country were you born?

Interviewer: Specify place of birth according to current boundaries.

United Kingdom includes England, Scotland, Wales, the Isle of Man, the Channel Islands and Northern Ireland

Do not read – One answer only

  • 01 Canada   - GO TO S6
  • 02 China
  • 03 Germany
  • 04 India
  • 05 Italy
  • 06 Philippines
  • 07 Poland
  • 08 Portugal
  • 09 United Kingdom
  • 10 United States
  • 11 Vietnam
  • 97 Other (Specify:_)
  • 98 Don't know     - GO TO S6
  • 99 Refusal     - GO TO S6
S6 year arrived canada

S5 is not 01 Canada

In what year did you come to live in Canada?

Record 4-digit year

Do not read

  • 01 _<Year>
  • 98 Don't know
  • 99 Refusal
S7 Democracy in home country

S4 is not 01 Canada

Thinking about your country of origin at the time that you left, would you say that this country was… Read list

  • 01 Very democratic
  • 02 Somewhat democratic
  • 03 Not very democratic
  • 04 Not democratic at all
    •  
  • 98 Don't know
  • 99 Refusal
S8 education

What is the highest level of education that you have reached?

Do not read – Code one only

  • 01 Some elementary
  • 02 Completed elementary
  • 03 Some high school
  • 04 Completed high school
  • 05 Some community college/vocational/trade school/commercial/CEGEP
  • 06 Completed community college/vocational/trade school/commercial/CEGEP
  • 07 Some university (no degree or diploma obtained)
  • 08 Completed university (diploma or bachelor degree)
  • 09 Post-graduate university/professional school (Master's, PhD, or any professional degree)
  • 97 Not democratic at all
  • 98 Don't know
  • 99 Refusal
S9 occupation

What best describes your current employment status?

Read list – Code max 2 responses

  • 01 Working full-time [Phone: read if asked "that is, 35 or more hours per week"]
  • 02 Working part-time [Phone: read if asked "that is, less than 35 hours per week"]
  • 03 Self-employed
  • 04 Unemployed, but looking for work
    1. Are you temporarily unemployed or laid off due to COVID-19? Yes/No
  • 05 A student attending school full-time
  • 06 Retired
  • 07 A caregiver or homemaker
  • 97 Other [specify]
  • 98 Don't know
  • 99 [Do not read] Refusal
S10 disability functional

How often do you have to limit your daily activities due to a physical condition, to pain, or to a mental health issue? Read list

  • 01 Never
  • 02 Sometimes
  • 03 Often
  • 04 Always

[Do not read]

  • 98 Don't know
  • 99 Refusal
S11 disability ID

Do you identify as having a disability?

Do not read

  • 01 Yes
  • 02 No

Do not read

  • 98 Don't know
  • 99 Refusal
S12 marital

What is your marital status? Are you…

Read in order until respondent provides a response – code one answer only

  • 01 Married
  • 02 Living common-law
  • 03 Widowed
  • 04 Separated
  • 05 Divorced
  • 06 Single, never married

Do not read

  • 98 Don't know
  • 99 Refusal
S13 household size

Including yourself, how many people usually live in your household?

[Do not read]

  • 01 Record number of people: [Number]
  • 99 Refusal
S14 kids

S13 is 2 or more

How many people in your household are under 18 years old?

  • 01 Record number of people: [Number]
  • 99 [Do not read] Prefer not to answer
S14A kids_age

S14 is 1 or more

What is the age of the youngest person in your household?

  • 01 Record number of people: [Number]
  • 99 [Do not read] Prefer not to answer
S15 income

What was the total annual income of all members of your household combined, before taxes, in 2019? [Read list] [Emphasize focus on total household income]

  • 01 Under $30,000
  • 02 $30,000 to just under $60,000
  • 03 $60,000 to just under $90,000
  • 04 $90,000 to just under $110,000
  • 05 $110,000 and above
  • 99 [Do not read] Refusal
S16 vote 2019

SCR3 is more than 1900 and less than 2001 or SCR3 is 2001 and SCR3B is less or equal to October 21, 2001 or SCR3 is 00 or SCR3B is 00

Finally, we would like to know if you voted in the October 21, 2019, federal general election?

Do not read

  • 01 Yes
  • 02 No
  • 77 Other (specify) _
  • 98 Don't know
  • 99 Refusal
S17 postal code

And to help us better understand how results vary by region, may I have your postal code?

Probe for first three digits if refusal

  • 01 _
  • 98 Don't know
  • 99 Refusal
THNK

That completes the survey. Thank you for taking part. Your participation is appreciated.

THNK2

Not eligible to complete survey

Thank you for your cooperation! Based on the information you have provided, unfortunately you are not eligible to complete the remainder of this survey.