Canadians Unwavering in Support for Economy Amid US Trade Dispute
Canada and the US are embroiled in a trade dispute that has been ongoing for several months, with the White House imposing tariffs on Canadian goods. Despite the rhetoric from Washington, Canadians remain optimistic about resolving the issue through diplomacy.
A recent survey by Spark Insights polled 6,345 adults online between August 26 and September 1, finding that 83% of respondents hope to see a return to the friendly and mutually beneficial relationship between the two nations.
However, Canadians are also willing to take measures to protect their economy. About 80% would support export restrictions or taxes on Canadian oil and canola, as well as export restrictions on potash and electricity, and an end to purchases of US military equipment. This level of support is consistent across different regions and partisan divides.
Despite the willingness to use economic measures, Canadians do not see this as a desired outcome, but rather as a necessary step to bring the Trump administration back to the negotiating table. They believe that President Trump's agenda is driven by a desire to annex Canada and take its resources, and are unlikely to waver in their support for protecting their economy.