A deep unease has settled over Canada, a growing fear about what the future holds in its relationship with the United States. The prevailing sentiment isn't optimism, but a stark apprehension, with nearly eighty percent of Canadians bracing for difficult times ahead.
The source of this anxiety stems from escalating tensions initiated by the American President, now in his second term. A trade war erupted in 2025, fueled by tariffs imposed on Canadian goods outside existing agreements, accompanied by dismissive rhetoric questioning the value of Canada as a partner.
This climate of uncertainty followed a significant address by Prime Minister Carney to the World Economic Forum, where he spoke of a fracturing global order – a veiled commentary on the current administration’s policies. Public reaction overwhelmingly supported his cautious approach.
The President’s repeated criticisms of Prime Minister Carney, coupled with unsettling suggestions of absorbing Canada into the American union, have amplified these concerns. These statements aren’t dismissed as mere bluster; they are seen as genuine threats to Canadian sovereignty.
The assessment of the President’s first year in office is overwhelmingly negative. A staggering two-thirds of Canadians assigned him a failing grade, while only a small fraction offered praise. Words like “corrupt,” “chaotic,” and “incompetent” dominate descriptions of his leadership.
A notable divergence exists within the Conservative Party, where half of voters offered a ‘C’ grade or higher to the President, and only a third gave him a failing mark. This suggests a degree of support, or at least a willingness to see potential benefits, even amidst widespread disapproval.
Despite attempts by U.S. officials to downplay the Prime Minister’s remarks following a private conversation, Carney remains steadfast in his original assessment. He refuses to retreat from his warnings about the shifting global landscape.
Canadians are paying close attention. A significant majority – sixty-one percent – report following U.S. news more closely than usual in the past year, mirroring a similar level of engagement with international events overall.
The situation in Venezuela, specifically the removal of President Maduro, is also weighing on Canadian minds. Nearly half believe this event will negatively impact Canada’s oil and gas industry, particularly in Alberta where concern is even higher.
A prevailing expectation is that further interventions and regime changes are on the horizon, orchestrated by the current American administration. This anticipation of continued disruption adds to the growing sense of vulnerability and uncertainty within Canada.
