Poll Shows 77 Percent of Canadians are Urging for Immediate Election Due to Trump Tariff Threat

January 21, 2025 TruthUSA

Over 75% of Canadians are in favor of an immediate federal election to give the federal government a “strong mandate” to address the threat of tariffs by U.S. President Donald Trump, as per a recent poll.

The Ipsos survey, conducted with a sample size of 1,001 Canadians and released on Jan. 21, indicated that 67% of respondents were confident in Canada’s ability to respond to the tariffs. Additionally, 59% believed Prime Minister Justin Trudeau should lead the country’s response, rather than provincial premiers.

The poll also revealed that 77% of participants are in favor of an immediate election to empower the federal government to tackle this issue effectively.

Furthermore, 82% of Canadians support Canada imposing its own tariffs on American goods to counter the threat. The federal government has expressed readiness to consider all options, including retaliatory tariffs, with Trudeau emphasizing that Ottawa will “not hesitate to act.”

Opinions were divided on Alberta Premier Danielle Smith’s stance against using oil and gas export restrictions as a response to the tariffs, with 55% disagreeing and 45% agreeing. Smith’s refusal to sign a joint statement between Ottawa and the provinces stemmed from her opposition to reducing energy exports to the U.S.

Additionally, 55% of respondents viewed Trump’s threat of imposing 25% tariffs on all Canadian exports as a bluff to prompt Ottawa to address issues like border security and defense spending. To tackle illegal immigration and trafficking, the federal government has proposed a $1.3 billion spending plan.

Meanwhile, 29% believe the increased tariffs will have minimal personal impact, but 71% disagree. According to the Canadian Chamber of Commerce, the 25% tariffs could reduce Canada’s economy by 2.6% and cost each family $1,300 annually.

Following his election victory in November, Trump announced plans to impose 25% tariffs on Canada and Mexico unless they addressed drug and illegal immigration issues at their borders with the U.S.

After his inauguration on Jan. 20, the new president hinted that the tariffs might take effect on Feb. 1.

Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre urged Parliament to reconvene urgently amidst the national “crisis” to enact new border controls, agree on trade retaliation measures, and devise a plan to revive Canada’s struggling economy.

Parliament has been prorogued since Jan. 6, when Trudeau announced his impending resignation upon the Liberal Party selecting a new leader. Parliament is scheduled to resume on March 24.

A federal election must be held by Oct. 20.

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