Trade tensions with the United States have significantly raised Donald Trump’s profile in Canadian politics. A national poll by Abacus Data shows nearly half of Canadians now consider the U.S. president and his administration among the most pressing issues facing their country.
The survey, released recently, predated a controversial video posted by Trump. The AI-generated clip, featuring ‘Donald Duck Army’ with assault rifles and Trump hairstyles, intensified the dispute over Lake Ontario’s renaming.
According to the poll, 45% of Canadians rank Trump and his administration as one of their top three concerns. This number increased by seven percentage points compared to two weeks ago. Despite this, the cost of living remains the primary issue, with 62% expressing concern. In Quebec, Trump is cited most frequently as a key issue. The economy, housing affordability, and healthcare also rank high, with respective concerns at 39%, 30%, and 29%.
These concerns emerge amidst strained relations between Ottawa and Washington, following failed trade negotiations and new U.S. tariffs on Canadian products. Prime Minister Mark Carney halted talks on August 21, which led to 50% U.S. tariffs being enforced the next day.
Poll Insights
The poll indicates political consequences at home due to the dispute. If elections occurred now, 45% of committed voters would support the Liberals, giving them a 10-point lead over the Conservatives. Previously, the lead was seven points.
For Canadians identifying Trump as a top issue, 60% would vote Liberal, while 21% lean towards the Conservatives. When asked which party could best handle Trump, 62% preferred the Liberals over 18% for the Conservatives.
Tensions are further influenced by a separate disagreement about Lake Ontario’s renaming. Trump’s executive order has prompted U.S. agencies to refer to it as ‘Lake America’. Canada has dismissed this, emphasizing the name Ontario’s deep historical roots.
Google Maps displays ‘Lake America’ for U.S. users following the order, while Canadians see ‘Lake Ontario’. International users view both names.
Trump posted another AI video, changing ‘Welcome to Lake Ontario’ signage to ‘Welcome to Lake America’. Additionally, he claimed Canadian businesses were shifting to the U.S., referencing trade issues.
The poll noted a four-point increase in government approval, now at 56%. Carney’s personal approval ratings improved too, as Canadian concerns about Trump heightened.
The survey took place online with 2,022 Canadian adults from August 21 to 26. The margin of error is ±2.2 percentage points.
Prime Minister Carney is increasingly confronting Trump on tariffs, framing it as a defense of Canada’s economic independence. His firm stance seems to resonate with Canadians.