VANCOUVER—Under steady rain, residents across British Columbia cast ballots Monday in a federal election that many expect could hinge on this province’s battleground ridings. Observers kept a close eye on numerous close races in the province that could see ridings flip between parties, after a campaign that focused on the environment, housing, populism and scandals. For some voters, the weather just added to the sense of fatigue hanging over an election that has prompted much speculation around strategic voting. Still, others took selfies outside polling stations, wearing their patriotism for all on their social media feeds to see. Chris Bentley, standing under an umbrella after casting her ballot in Vancouver-Granville, said, “For me probably climate change is the biggest issue this election.” She said she expects affordable housing to be the top issue for others in the area, and commented that she was glad she bought her home “a long time ago” before Vancouver’s housing market ballooned. David and Pamela Gray said they hoped that the Liberals would get enough seats to form government again. “I just don’t think the other parties can do any better,” David Gray said. “The Conservatives will cut too many programs.” YOU MIGHT BE INTERESTED…