Canada's View of America Hits All-Time Low

Canadians' View of the United States Hits Historic Low

New research has revealed that Canadian public opinion of the United States is at its lowest point in history. According to a recent survey conducted by the Pew Research Center, only 34 percent of Canadians hold a favorable view of the U.S., while 64 percent have an unfavorable opinion. This marks the lowest level of favorability recorded since the organization began tracking this data in 2002.

The Decline in Relations Between Canada and the U.S.

The deterioration in the relationship between Canada and the United States has been significant since the start of former President Donald Trump’s administration. Trump frequently made statements suggesting that Canada should join the U.S., even referring to it as the “51st state.” His administration also imposed a series of tariffs on Canadian goods, including a 50 percent tax on steel and aluminum, and a 25 percent duty on automobiles.

In response, Canada introduced its own taxes targeting American technology companies and implemented additional tariffs. Canadian officials have consistently rejected Trump’s remarks about the country being a potential state, emphasizing the importance of Canada’s sovereignty and independence.

A Sharp Drop in Favorability

The Pew Research Center's findings indicate that Canadian favorability toward the U.S. has dropped by 20 percentage points since 2024. This decline mirrors the levels seen in 2020, the final full year of Trump’s first term, when only 35 percent of Canadians viewed the U.S. positively.

Confidence in Trump’s approach to international affairs has also declined significantly. Only 22 percent of Canadians expressed confidence in his foreign policy, compared to 52 percent who supported former President Joe Biden’s approach in the previous year. Additionally, 76 percent of Canadians believe Trump is dangerous, and 74 percent do not trust his ability to manage global economic issues.

Canada's Perception of the U.S. as Ally and Threat

Despite the negative sentiment, 55 percent of Canadians still identify the U.S. as their top ally. However, a larger proportion—59 percent—see the U.S. as their top threat. This contrast highlights the complex nature of the bilateral relationship, which continues to be shaped by political tensions and trade disputes.

Reactions from Canadian Leaders

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, following his party's victory in the federal election in April, warned that the U.S. seeks to control Canada’s resources and territory. He stated, “As I've been warning for months, America wants our land, our resources, our water, our country. These are not idle threats.” He emphasized that while Canada will not allow itself to be controlled, the global landscape has changed significantly.

Canadian Foreign Minister Mélanie Joly has also taken Trump’s comments seriously. She told the BBC, “This is not a joke anymore. This is not something we laugh at. This is actually based on the conversations we've had—that I've had—with many of the Trump administration officials.”

What Comes Next?

A new 35 percent tariff on Canadian products is set to take effect in August. Trump has indicated he is prepared to raise the rate further if Canada retaliates with its own levies or lower it depending on how relations evolve between the two neighboring countries.

The ongoing trade tensions and political rhetoric continue to shape the dynamics between the U.S. and Canada, raising concerns about the future of their historically close relationship.