Annexation threats, violating trade deals, and constant disrespect will tend to have that effect.
Since taking office for a second time, the U.S. President has talked about annexing Canada, referred to us as the 51st State, violated signed trade agreements (that he once praised) by imposing tariffs on key sectors, and shown consistent disrespect towards the idea of Canada as a sovereign nation.
In these circumstances, Canadians would be justified in forming a negative perception of U.S. leadership. Unsurprisingly, that’s exactly what we have done.
And now, a new Gallup poll shows how deeply negative that perception has become.
According to the survey, just 15% of Canadians approve of U.S. leadership, compared to 79% who disapprove. By contrast, 23% approve of China’s leadership, while 64% disapprove. 9% approve of Russia’s leadership, while 82% disapprove. Among the countries mentioned, only Germany’s leadership received a net positive rating from Canadians, with 54% approving and 19% disapproving.
This poll is an important reminder for those in Canada who try to blame the Canadian government for the trade war started by U.S. President Donald Trump, or who demand that Canada take whatever deal Trump offers. The leadership of the United States has become so unpopular in Canada that such suggestions will be met with significant opposition, and that opposition is well-founded.
Canada is a sovereign nation, and our citizens have every right to oppose the idea of giving in to an administration that disrespects our independence and shows itself to be untrustworthy.
Spencer Fernando
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