Housing priorities shelved – at least for now – as trade dispute rumbles on
As Canada heads into a federal election, a new CityNews-Léger poll indicates that US relations, including trade tariffs, have become the top concern for voters—surpassing domestic issues for the first time.
The survey, conducted between March 10 and 13, found that 26% of respondents identified Canada-US relations as their primary issue, while 22% cited inflation, and 10% pointed to the economy. The poll sampled 1,504 Canadians and was weighted for age, gender, region, and education.
Source: CityNews, Léger
Shift toward international concerns
The results suggest a shift in Canadian voter priorities, with growing concerns over trade policies under the Trump administration, which has previously imposed tariffs on Canadian goods. Regionally, 32% of Quebec residents ranked US relations as their top concern, while 29% of Albertans focused on inflation.
Age also played a factor, as 39% of Canadians aged 55 and older highlighted US relations as their primary issue, whereas younger voters were more likely to focus on the cost of living.
Looking beyond the election, the poll found that 36% of Canadians want the next government to prioritize US relations, followed by 27% for affordability and 16% for economic growth.
Liberals seen as best party
When asked which party is best suited to manage Canada-US relations, 37% of respondents chose the federal Liberals, while 31% sided with the Conservative Party of Canada (CPC). However, the Conservatives were seen as better equipped to handle economic and fiscal issues.
The results also varied by region. In Ontario and Quebec, more than 40% of voters said the Liberals were the best option for US relations, while in Alberta and Saskatchewan, more than 40% favoured the CPC.
Leadership preferences in a divided electorate
Liberal leader Mark Carney emerged as the preferred choice for managing US relations, with 37% of respondents backing him to navigate diplomatic challenges with Washington. Carney also held a slight lead on economic issues at 36%. Meanwhile, CPC leader Pierre Poilievre was favoured on immigration (34%) and affordability (31%).
Despite these preferences, a notable portion of respondents—20% to 25%—remained uncertain about which leader is best equipped to handle key national concerns.
With Canadians heading to the polls on April 28, the prominence of US relations in the national conversation marks a departure from past elections, where domestic concerns traditionally dominated voter priorities.
What do you think of the poll results showing international relations as the top concern? Share your insights in the comments below.
