Poll Reveals Divided Canadian Opinions on U.S.: Ally or Enemy?

As trade tensions escalate between Canada and the United States, a recent national survey reveals a country increasingly divided in its views toward its closest neighbour. The poll, conducted among more than 1,500 Canadians in the wake of new U.S. tariffs on steel and aluminum, highlights shifting opinions on whether Americans are viewed as friends or foes.

According to the results, almost one-third of Canadians now see the U.S. as a "neutral country", signalling a move away from the traditionally close partnership. Just over a quarter—27 per cent—believe that the U.S. remains an ally, while a nearly equal share—26 per cent—now consider it an enemy. These numbers reflect deepening uncertainties amid rising protectionist measures south of the border.

The divides are especially pronounced along gender, age, and regional lines. Men are more likely than women to consider the U.S. an ally, with just over a third expressing such support compared to only one in five women. Conversely, women are significantly more likely to view the U.S. as an enemy. The generational split is also stark, with older Canadians aged 55 and above more likely to see the U.S. as an adversary than their younger counterparts. Provincially, Albertans stand out as the most pro-American, while residents of Ontario and British Columbia appear especially wary, with higher proportions labelling the U.S. as an enemy.

Political allegiances also shape attitudes. Among Conservative supporters, 44 per cent see the U.S. as an ally, compared to only 17 per cent of Liberals and 12 per cent of New Democratic Party (NDP) supporters. On the other hand, more than a third of Liberal and over 40 per cent of NDP supporters describe the U.S. as an enemy, whereas only 16 per cent of Conservatives use such harsh terms.

The trade dispute reached new heights this week when President Donald Trump signed an executive order doubling tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminum imports, raising them to 50 per cent. The White House insists the measure is essential for U.S. national security and jobs, though Canadian officials have expressed caution, with Prime Minister Mark Carney stating the government needs time to formulate a response.

Despite the sharpened rhetoric and economic uncertainty, the poll shows some moderation in Canadian sentiment since earlier this year. The percentage seeing the U.S. as an enemy has actually declined by six points since March, while those viewing the United States as neutral have risen by the same margin. The share of Canadians identifying the U.S. as an ally is down slightly—by two points—since March.

Analysts suggest these trends may reflect both fatigue with trade tensions and a shift in the political atmosphere. The advent of a new Canadian prime minister with a moderate mandate, as well as less heated commentary from the White House, appears to have tempered public anxieties somewhat. At the same time, calls from Canadian business and political leaders to safeguard cross-border ties may be encouraging hopes that relations can improve—or at least stabilize—despite ongoing disputes.

While the online nature of the poll means results should be interpreted with some caution, the findings underscore the complex and evolving nature of public opinion in Canada. As discussions continue over tariffs and broader economic cooperation, Canadians remain attentive to the balance between defending national interests and maintaining critical ties with their powerful southern neighbour.