A recent poll conducted by CityNews-Leger reveals that a significant majority of Canadians are resistant to the idea of Canada becoming the 51st state of the United States. This poll was carried out from March 10 to March 13 and surveyed 1,504 Canadians aged 18 and older, yielding a margin of error of +/- 2.49 per cent.
According to the results, four in five Canadians expressed strong opposition to joining the U.S., with 78 per cent concerned about the rhetoric employed by U.S. President Donald Trump, who has made provocative statements regarding Canada's economic sovereignty since taking office in January. Trump has openly threatened Canada with tariffs and economic pressure, calling former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau “Governor Trudeau” to emphasize his political disdain.
The reasons behind the opposition to becoming the 51st state are varied and deeply rooted in Canadian identity. An overwhelming 81 per cent of respondents highlighted concerns about losing Canadian identity, culture, and sovereignty. Additionally, 68 per cent indicated that the differences in health care systems between the two countries were a significant factor. Concerns about public safety due to distinct gun laws and legal systems were cited by 60 per cent, while 58 per cent expressed worries regarding U.S. politics and governance.
Interestingly, the strongest demographic support for Canada potentially becoming a U.S. state came from younger individuals aged 18 to 34, with 17 per cent in favor, and those who have immigrated to Canada within the last 11 years, at 28 per cent. In Alberta, the support was recorded at 13 per cent, and among men, it was at 12 per cent.
Amid the ongoing tariff disputes between the two nations, Canadians are demonstrating their support for local products. The tariffs, which have been frequently adjusted, have spurred two-thirds of those polled to significantly increase their purchasing of Canadian-made goods, with an additional 17 per cent indicating they plan to do so soon. Furthermore, 70 per cent reported a decrease in their purchases of U.S. alcohol, with some provinces even removing American products from their liquor store inventories as a form of retaliation against tariffs.
Travel plans to the U.S. have also been affected, with 58 per cent of respondents indicating they have canceled or will not travel south of the border. Another 13 per cent signaled their intention to cease U.S. travel in the near future. Older Canadians were notably more proactive in actions supporting the Canadian economy. In contrast, residents of Alberta were less inclined than others to engage in behaviors supporting Canadian products and culture.
Public opinion on the Canadian government's decision to impose retaliatory tariffs on U.S. goods was relatively favorable, with 68 per cent of respondents supporting this approach. However, 43 per cent acknowledged that significant border issues persist between Canada and the U.S., including challenges related to security, illegal immigration, and drug trafficking.
Beyond economic concerns, a majority of 77 per cent of Canadians expressed anxiety regarding the deepening relationship between the U.S. and Russia. Reports reflecting the warm rapport between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, coupled with U.S. efforts to facilitate a ceasefire in the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia, have further fueled public concern.
In conclusion, the poll underscores the strong sentiment among Canadians about maintaining their national identity and sovereignty amidst the complex geopolitical landscape and the economic measures imposed by the U.S. government.
