A significant number of Canadians (6 out of 10) express that they will not be able to trust Americans as they once did.

A significant number of Canadians (6 out of 10) express that they will not be able to trust Americans as they once did.

In a recent poll conducted by Ipsos Public Affairs, it was revealed that Canadians' confidence in their political leaders to manage relations with the U.S., particularly under President Donald Trump, has taken a hit. The survey, part of the Trump, Tariffs, and Turmoil syndicated study, was carried out between September 9 and 12, 2025.

The poll found that only 42% of Canadians believe Prime Minister Mark Carney will succeed in negotiating a new trade deal with the Trump administration. This is a significant drop from the 60% who had confidence in their leaders to manage Trump back in June.

The negative perception among Canadians about the U.S. is not surprising, given the on-again-off-again tariffs, counter-tariffs, and trade uncertainty that have marked the Canada-U.S. relationship since March 2025. This tension has led 71% of Canadians to believe that disputes between the two countries will continue for several years and are not going to be resolved soon.

Ipsos Public Affairs CEO Darrell Bricker stated that Canadians feel their relationship with the United States has changed in a fundamental way. This change is reflected in the rise of the 'Buy Canadian' movement, with 75% of Canadian consumers stating they would pay more for premium or locally produced food products (PwC poll, June). This shift is expected to present challenges to American brands operating in Canada.

However, the poll also showed that around half (51%) of Canadians approve of Prime Minister Carney's handling of the relationship with the U.S., while one-third (32%) disapprove and 18% are not sure. Moreover, nearly half of those surveyed in June (47%) said they are more likely to feel proud to be a Canadian than they were five years ago.

The negative sentiment towards the U.S. has led to a renewed sense of patriotism for many Canadians. Around three-quarters of Canadians surveyed say they intend to avoid travel to the U.S. (Ipsos Poll for Global News, Canada Day). Statistics Canada data shows a decline in Canada-U.S. travel, reflecting this trend.

In 2025, the Canadian Prime Minister is Mark Carney, whose government enjoys positive public approval for its handling of relations with the United States, as evidenced by diplomatic engagements emphasizing cooperation and mutual support. Despite the challenges, it seems that Canadians are determined to support their own country and its businesses in these trying times.