In 2018, the commission was established to organize two debates, one in English and one in French,[1] between the leaders of eligible political parties during the 2019 Canadian federal election.

Prior to the creation of the commission, Canadian leaders' debates were organized and held by a consortium of the main television networks.

Former Governor General David Johnston served as the Commissioner until he resigned in March 2023 to become the Special Rapporteur for Election Interference.

[19] The French moderator was Patrice Roy (Ici Radio-Canada Télé), who was assisted by several journalists from prominent Quebec newspapers.

[7][20] On August 12, 2019, the Commissioner extended invitations for Justin Trudeau, Andrew Scheer, Jagmeet Singh, Elizabeth May and Yves-François Blanchet to attend.

He also sent a letter to Maxime Bernier indicating that he did not qualify for the debates at this time, and asking for additional information from the People's Party so that a final decision could be reached by September 16.

The protests were directed at CBC News after organizers were told that broadcasters not the commission would determine the questions and topics of the debates.

[37] The debate started off with a question from moderator Sachi Kurl of Angus Reid posed to Yves-François Blanchet which was called offensive for appearing to label Quebecers as racist.