Abacus Data Poll: How do Nova Scotians feel about Trump’s tariffs?

We’re back with some more polling results and analysis from Nova Scotia.

We recently surveyed 600 Nova Scotian adults about world events, as well as federal and provincial politics through our new Nova Scotia omnibus.

We love Atlantic Canada! As part of our continued investment in the region, we have established a new Nova Scotia omnibus survey that we intend to run on a regular basis. New and existing clients can now add questions to our Nova Scotia omnibus, giving you the data and insights you need to make good decisions in this uncertain time.

600 cases is a nice, healthy sample in Nova Scotia, giving us lots of interesting material to share.

Below you will find the results to some questions we asked specifically about Donald Trump and the U.S. trade war.

As you will see, these results are full of emotion. They demonstrate just how angry people in this part of the country are about Trump’s threats to our economy and sovereignty as the 2025 federal election gets started. Spoiler: It’s red hot.

The anger and concern reported here also remind us how Canadians are feeling as the federal leaders criss-cross the country and their local candidates hit the doors, looking for votes.

As we shared last Monday, Mark Carney’s Liberals started the 2025 campaign with a 10-point lead over the Pierre Poilievre’s Conservatives and a big advantage on the managing-Donald-Trump-issue in Nova Scotia.

Today’s release also highlights the strong relationship between feeling angry, betrayed, and worried about Trump’s tariffs and being a Liberal supporter in the province.  

As we all brace for Trump’s April 2nd deadline and whatever comes next, one thing is for sure: Trump-anger – and the way the Carney Liberals are using it now – is a powerful political force in Nova Scotia and beyond.  

Now to the results!  

EMOTIONS BOILING OVER IN NOVA SCOTIA, THREE-QUARTERS ANGRY

Our latest results confirm that Nova Scotians are deeply troubled by Donald Trump’s threats to our economy and our sovereignty.

When asked to choose three words that describe how they currently feel about Trump’s tariffs from a list of options, 76% of Nova Scotians say they are “angry.”

Large shares also choose the words “worried,” “disappointed,” and “betrayed” from the list of options – language that describes varying degrees of sadness. The word “betrayed” is, of course, the strongest emotion in that group, suggesting a terrible mix of anger, sadness, and shock brought about by a breach of trust.

While not everyone is upset about Trump’s tariffs, the results for the words with positive connotations are in the single digits. Just 7% of Nova Scotians say they are “hopeful,” 6% say they are “content,” 4% say they are “thrilled,” and 3% say they are “happy.”  

And only 12% choose the word “indifferent” from the list – the most neutral option provided.

WHAT ABOUT AGE & FEDERAL VOTE INTENTIONS?

While Nova Scotians are clearly frustrated by Trump’s tariffs, there are some interesting age dynamics and political differences in our provincial polling.  

Consistent with our national research, the likelihood of being “angry” about Trump’s tariffs generally increases with age, with Baby Boomers (i.e. those age 60+) in Nova Scotia being far more likely to be angry about Trump’s tariffs than young Canadians (those age 18-24), by a difference of almost 20-points.

The same is true when it comes to feeling “betrayed.” Those age 45+ are far more likely to feel “betrayed” by Trump’s tariffs than those under 45 (68% vs. 51%), with that feeling the most common among Baby Boomers.

Some other key differences emerge when we look at the response by current vote intentions, which we tested in Nova Scotia in the same omnibus survey and released last week.   

In Nova Scotia, those who are “angry” about Trump’s tariffs are far more likely to be committed Liberal and NDP voters than Conservative voters. A remarkable 85% of those who say they are “angry” about Trump’s tariffs also say they would vote Liberal if a federal election was held today, and an even larger proportion (89%) say they would vote NDP.

The comparable figure among decided Conservative voters in the province is 60%.  

Liberal voters are also much more likely to say they feel “betrayed” and “worried” about Trump’s tariffs than NDP and Conservative voters, by significant margins.

All of these results help to explain why dealing with Donald Trump is such a powerful issue for the Carney Liberals in Nova Scotia as the election gets underway — which, by the way, is a province with many older residents, in a part of Canada that usually goes red.  

DEALING WITH TRUMP NOW A TOP ISSUE IN NOVA SCOTIA

As our regular readers know, the need to deal with Donald Trump and his administration has quickly gone from being a middle-of-list issue for Canadians to being a top issue in recent months in our national polling. That’s also true in Nova Scotia, with 45% of Nova Scotians now considering Trump one of the two most important issues facing Canada and Canadians today.

Older Nova Scotians (like older Canadians) are also a bit more likely to view Trump and his administration as a top issue than younger Nova Scotians, whereas younger Nova Scotians are a bit more inclined to view the cost of living as a top issue than older Nova Scotians.

These same age differences are surfacing in our national polls, with two big desires – the desire for change and the desire for security – clashing and competing for attention as the 2025 federal election begins.

NET IMPRESSION OF -70 FOR DONALD TRUMP IN NOVA SCOTIA

Personal impressions of Donald Trump are also overwhelmingly negative in Nova Scotia, with a remarkable 81% percent of the population currently holding a negative impression of the American President, giving him a net impression score of -70. This is more evidence of the strong, negative emotions that Canadians are feeling as Trump continues to attack our country through his words and actions.

For comparison, all of Canada’s federal party leaders are much better regarded, with Mark Carney, the current Prime Minister, being the most popular national leader right now with a net impression score of +14 in Nova Scotia. Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre has a -20 in the province. NDP leader Jagmeet Singh has a -6. And Elizabeth May has a +10.   

MORE TRUMP CHAOS AND UNCERTAINTY EXPECTED

How seriously are Nova Scotians taking Trump’s words and actions these days? The short answer is: very seriously.

Whereas many of us started this year thinking that the American President’s words were nothing more than overblown rhetoric, dismissing it as that is much less common now.   

According to our latest research, 76% of Nova Scotians believe that Donald Trump genuinely wants Canada to become part of the United States. That’s exactly the same proportion who say they are “angry” about Trump’s tariffs, as discussed earlier in this post. 

Four-in-five Nova Scotians (80%) also expect the whole Trump Presidency to be as chaotic and threatening to Canada as the first few months have been.

And both of those beliefs are now widespread in Nova Scotia, with little-to-no variances between demographic groups.     

BUT… IT’S HARD TO KEEP TRACK OF THINGS!

Given the frenetic nature of Trump’s threats as well as the big policy reversals that we have seen on both sides of border in recent weeks, we were also curious to see how Nova Scotians are coping (or not coping) with the wicked pace and tremendous volume of information that’s coming at them about Trump and the U.S. trade war through the Canadian news outlets and social media every day.

There’s also broad consensus here. Virtually everybody (88%) agrees that it’s hard to keep track of which tariffs are in place and which ones are coming, with those age 45 and older being slightly more likely to feel that way than those who are ages 18-44, and a tiny bit of gender difference.   

As the federal election continues, it will be interesting to see if party leaders and their candidates are able to help more people sort through the things they’re reading, seeing, and hearing about the U.S. trade war – framing the conflict and its current state up for them in more definitive ways, while making the case that they are the best choice to manage Trump and lead the country through this challenging time.

Right now, Carney’s Liberals are doing a much better job of that than the other parties – with four weeks of the 2025 campaign still to go.  

UPSHOT

As the 2025 federal election gets started, Nova Scotians agree far more than they disagree about Donald Trump, and they’re angry.

They’re angry about Trump’s words and his actions, with most Nova Scotians now seeing them as genuine attacks on our economy and our sovereignty.  

While the top issue in Nova Scotia (and beyond) continues to be the rising cost of living, our latest polling shows that the terrible drama playing out north and south of the border is a major source of frustration for individuals of all ages and backgrounds. 88% of Nova Scotians also expect Trump’s chaos to continue, recognizing that this big, ugly problem will probably be with us for some time.  

These red-hot feelings about Trump are also driving political choices in Nova Scotia, with Carney’s Liberals currently benefitting the most from Trump-induced anger and concern in the province, while Poilievre’s Conservatives stick to their plan of trying to make this election about the rising cost of living and alleviating that pain.

What will Mr. Trump do next? Who knows? We don’t.

With four more years to go in his Presidency, it seems pretty unlikely, that this issue, and it’s political velocity, will be going away.   

Methodology

The survey was conducted with 600 adult Nova Scotians over the age of 18 from March 17 to 20, 2025. A random sample of panelists were invited to complete the survey from a set of partner panels based on the Lucid exchange platform. These partners are typically double opt-in survey panels, blended to manage out potential skews in the data from a single source.

The margin of error for a comparable probability-based random sample of the same size is +/- 4.1%, 19 times out of 20.

The data were weighted according to census data to ensure that the sample matched Canada’s population according to age, gender, educational attainment, and region. Totals may not add up to 100 due to rounding.

This survey was paid for by Abacus Data Inc.

Abacus Data follows the CRIC Public Opinion Research Standards and Disclosure Requirements that can be found here:  https://canadianresearchinsightscouncil.ca/standards/

ABOUT ABACUS DATA

We are Canada’s most sought-after, influential, and impactful polling and market research firm. We are hired by many of North America’s most respected and influential brands and organizations.

We use the latest technology, sound science, and deep experience to generate top-flight research-based advice to our clients. We offer global research capacity with a strong focus on customer service, attention to detail, and exceptional value.

And we are growing throughout all parts of Canada and the United States and have capacity for new clients who want high quality research insights with enlightened hospitality.

Our record speaks for itself: we were one of the most accurate pollsters conducting research during the 2021 Canadian election following up on our outstanding record in the 2019, 2015, and 2011 federal elections.

Contact us with any questions.

Find out more about how we can help your organization by downloading our corporate profile and service offering.

Abacus Data Poll: Liberals and Conservatives tied, but advantage is still with Carney’s Liberals.

As the first week of Canada’s 2025 general election comes to an end, our latest Abacus Data survey—our third poll of the campaign—finds the Liberals and Conservatives neck-and-neck nationally, with each party securing 39% of the committed vote among all eligible voters.

Among those most likely to vote, however, the Liberals edge ahead by two points, giving them a slim but notable advantage in a race that was once firmly in Conservative territory.

In this report, I’ll unpack the headline numbers, explore shifting demographic allegiances, and consider the increasingly important role of external factors such as Donald Trump’s presidency in shaping Canadian voters’ perceptions and choices

Liberals and Conservatives are tied nationally

Among all eligible voters surveyed, the Liberals and Conservatives remain deadlocked at 39% each. When we focus on likely voters—those who tell us they will “definitely” vote—Liberal support ticks up slightly to 41%, while the Conservatives hold at 39%. Although a two-point lead may seem modest, it represents a meaningful shift from earlier in the year and the efficiency of the Liberal vote means even a tie will lead to a Liberal government.

The New Democratic Party (NDP) remains in third place at 11% nationally. Given the party’s recent struggles, it will need to recalibrate quickly if it hopes to gain momentum and position itself as a viable alternative for progressive voters uneasy about either a Liberal or Conservative government.

Among all committed voters, the regional stories continue to evolve.

British Columbia: The Liberals and Conservatives are statistically tied, underscoring a highly competitive race in a province that has been a three-way battleground in previous cycles.

Ontario: Liberals hold a three-point lead, an improvement over their standing even a few weeks ago, suggesting that Liberal Leader Mark Carney’s campaign messaging may be resonating in the country’s most populous province.

Quebec: The Liberals now outpace the Bloc Québécois by 13 points, demonstrating a continued ability to consolidate the federalist vote and win over soft nationalist voters.

Atlantic Canada: The Liberals enjoy a commanding 21-point lead, building on the East Coast’s historical tilt toward the party in recent decades and reverting a shift to the Conservatives we had seen over the past two years.

One of the most notable shifts in this wave is the clear movement of young voters and older voters toward the Liberal Party:

Young Voters (18–30): The Liberals have taken the lead among younger voters, having closed the gap that the Conservatives have established for the past few years.

Boomers (60+): The Liberal lead among Boomers has expanded. The Conservatives continue to do well with the 45–59 demographic, but the fact that older voters—traditionally seen as more Conservative-friendly—are warming to the Liberals highlights how the dynamics of this campaign differ from past elections.

Millennials and Gen X (roughly ages 30–44 and 45–59): The Conservatives continue to hold a lead in these cohorts, particularly among those worried about day-to-day affordability. Pierre Poilievre’s strong emphasis on cost-of-living issues, housing, and the conomy may still resonate with these groups balancing mortgages, child care, and the challenges of raising families.

Growing Liberal Pool, Static Conservative Base

One of the fundamental indicators we track is the size of each party’s accessible voter pool—the proportion of Canadians who would consider voting for a party. Our latest data show the Liberal accessible voter universe has expanded slightly, while the Conservative pool remains essentially unchanged from the previous wave. If you picture this as an angler casting a net, the Liberals now have a larger net (more fish to catch), meaning that with effective messaging and ground organization, they can potentially convert more Canadians into active supporters on election day. The Conservatives, while still holding a sizeable base, appear to have plateaued in their capacity to attract new supporters.

Voter Enthusiasm and Desire for Change

Another critical finding is that 68% of Canadians now say they are “definitely” going to vote, a four-point jump since our last survey. Interest in the election continues to be markedly higher than in the 2021 campaign. Liberal supporters are more likely to say they will vote than Conservative and NDP supporters.

This desire to vote reflects heightened interest in the election. Overall, 72% of Canadians say they are very interested in the coming federal election (rating their interest an 8 to 10 on a 10-point scale). Older Canadians (those 60 and over) show the strongest engagement at 85%, compared to only 55% among those aged 18 to 29. Regionally, Saskatchewan and Manitoba top the list at 80%, with Quebec notably lower at 60%. There is also a modest gender gap, as 76% of men report a high level of interest versus 69% of women. Finally, Liberals are currently the most tuned-in supporters at 81%, followed by Conservatives at 77%, while the NDP base trails behind at 64%.

At the same time, the desire for change appears to be softening. While a majority still say they would prefer a change in government, those who strongly desire change have dipped from previous waves. Our poll also finds that 23% of Canadians now definitely want to see the Liberals re-elected—up from earlier readings. Taken together, these trends suggest the “time-for-a-change” sentiment that once fuelled Conservative momentum may not be as potent as it was, giving the Liberals some breathing room to solidify support. But there is still an audience for a change message.

Leader Favourability and Perceptions

Mark Carney (Liberal): Carney remains the most popular leader, with 42% positive impressions versus 31% negative, for a net +11 favourability. His reputation as a steady hand in times of turbulence—alongside a polished performance so far on the campaign trail—has seemingly built trust among a cross-section of Canadians.

He tends to perform especially well in Atlantic Canada and Ontario, where majorities lean positive, and he also garners higher approval among older Canadians (60+) than among younger cohorts. Carney’s support skews more female than male, although men are still more positive than negative on balance. The political breakdown shows that Liberal supporters are by far the most enthusiastic about him; in fact, well over half hold a favourable view. By contrast, Conservative voters split more evenly, though they tilt negative overall, and some NDP partisans remain neutral or only mildly positive. These dynamics help explain why Carney’s net favourability surpasses most other leaders at this stage of the campaign.

Pierre Poilievre (Conservative): Poilievre’s negatives have inched up to 45%, while his positives sit at 38%, resulting in a net of -7. A slight dip from our last wave, this shift may reflect increased scrutiny as the campaign heats up, particularly on his approach to economic policy and rhetorical style.

He does best among men, older Canadians, and especially among people who currently support the Conservatives—in these groups, a clear majority have a favourable impression of him. Regionally, Poilievre’s strongest support is in Alberta and the Prairies, where almost half or more view him positively, whereas he struggles most in Quebec, where fewer than one in three feel positively about him and a clear majority are negative. By contrast, women, younger voters, and those who support the Liberals or New Democrats register higher levels of dislike for Poilievre, pushing his net ratings downward in those segments.

Jagmeet Singh (NDP): Singh continues to be challenged by higher negatives relative to his positives, leaving him as the least popular federal leader. While some loyal NDP supporters remain enthusiastic about Singh’s leadership, the party has struggled to convert broader frustration about affordability into direct support.

Learn about the game-changing tool from the Abacus Data team that makes it possible to estimate polling results to the riding level to improve advocacy and government relations.

Carney vs. Poilievre: The Leadership Gap

A particularly revealing set of questions asked Canadians to compare Mark Carney and Pierre Poilievre on attributes like “captaining a ship through a rough storm,” “finding common ground to solve a dispute,” and “standing up to a bully.” Last week, Carney only held a two-point lead over Poilievre on crisis leadership (“captaining a ship”); this week, that gap has grown to seven points. He’s also ahead by nine points on “finding common ground” and four points on “standing up to a bully.” These incremental leads, while not decisive on their own, can shape the campaign narrative—especially for voters who are still sizing up the two leaders on the national stage.

The Trump Factor and Competing Frames

One of the most intriguing insights from this poll comes from retesting our “election frames.” We asked Canadians to choose whether this election is:

  • Primarily about which party can best handle the challenges posed by Donald Trump, now President of the United States once again; or
  • A question of whether it’s time for change at home in Canada, or affordability, or the economy.

A majority (54%) said the election is about dealing with Trump’s impact on Canada, while 46% said it is more about changing our domestic leadership. However, when we frame it as cost of living vs. dealing with Trump, affordability wins out by a margin of 58% to 42%. In other words, while Canadians generally care about how any prime minister will navigate the Trump presidency, pocketbook issues still dominate for most voters when forced to make a choice.

The differences in vote intention under these frames are profound. Those who see the election primarily in terms of opposing Trump and ensuring Canada’s interests are defended lean decisively toward the Liberals. Conversely, those focused on cost-of-living challenges lean strongly Conservative. Understanding these conflicting frames—and which one resonates most with swing voters—may very well determine the outcome of the election.

The Upshot: Advantage Liberal

Our third poll of this campaign confirms that the 2025 federal race is a tight, compelling contest. The Liberals have managed to narrow the Conservative advantage and now find themselves locked in a dead heat among eligible voters, with a modest edge among those most committed to casting a ballot. Regionally, gains in Ontario and Atlantic Canada are bolstering the Liberals, while the Conservatives are clinging to their core support in the Prairies and among specific age cohorts (Millennials and Gen X).

Meanwhile, the why of this election remains contested in the public mind. Economic concerns—especially cost of living—loom large. At the same time, Donald Trump’s threats and tariffs have many Canadians worrying about Canada’s place in a suddenly more uncertain international landscape. Liberals have seized on these concerns, positioning Mark Carney as the best captain in a storm, while Pierre Poilievre is still trying to focus minds on inflation, housing, taxes, and government spending hoping these can find a way to overshadow anxieties about Trump.

With a month left until voters head to the polls, the race remains fluid. But one thing is clear: Canadians are more engaged, the stakes feel higher, and the leaders face a voter population more prepared to be swayed by events on both sides of the border. Whether that heightened engagement redounds to the benefit of the Liberals, the Conservatives, or an insurgent NDP campaign looking to recapture disenchanted progressives remains one of the central questions of this pivotal 2025 election.

Methodology

The survey was conducted with 1,800 adult Canadians over the age of 18 from March 24 to 27, 2025. A random sample of panelists were invited to complete the survey from a set of partner panels based on the Lucid exchange platform. These partners are typically double opt-in survey panels, blended to manage out potential skews in the data from a single source.

The margin of error for a comparable probability-based random sample of the same size is +/- 2.3%, 19 times out of 20.

The data were weighted according to census data to ensure that the sample matched Canada’s population according to age, gender, educational attainment, and region. Totals may not add up to 100 due to rounding.

This survey was paid for by Abacus Data Inc.

Abacus Data follows the CRIC Public Opinion Research Standards and Disclosure Requirements that can be found here:  https://canadianresearchinsightscouncil.ca/standards/

ABOUT ABACUS DATA

We are Canada’s most sought-after, influential, and impactful polling and market research firm. We are hired by many of North America’s most respected and influential brands and organizations.

We use the latest technology, sound science, and deep experience to generate top-flight research-based advice to our clients. We offer global research capacity with a strong focus on customer service, attention to detail, and exceptional value.

And we are growing throughout all parts of Canada and the United States and have capacity for new clients who want high quality research insights with enlightened hospitality.

Our record speaks for itself: we were one of the most accurate pollsters conducting research during the 2021 Canadian election following up on our outstanding record in the 2019, 2015, and 2011 federal elections.

Contact us with any questions.

Find out more about how we can help your organization by downloading our corporate profile and service offering.

The Conservative Dilemma (and opportunity)

In the last couple of months (and even weeks) we have seen big shifts in vote intention federally. What was once a sure win for the Conservative Party has turned into a much narrower race.

One fundamental change between now and before is the issues Canadians care about- particularly the ones they care about the most. Cost of living remains the top issue but even so, the threats to pocketbooks also look different under new trade tensions. And tensions between Canada and the US (specifically Trump) has settled into the top 3 issues consistently for the last few weeks.

One theory I have about this shift in voter intention is that it’s been difficult for the Conservatives to land on their stance about Canada-US relations, and more generally react to what’s happening in the United States. To test this, I put forward some recent actions from the US president and asked Canadians to tell me their thoughts: if they liked the action and how it was done, if they liked it, but not how it was done, or if they were against the issue altogether.

I learned that indeed navigating this new territory can be tricky, for all leaders.  

The data below is from an online survey with n=1,701 Canadian residents 18+ from March 10th to 11th 2025. 

Finding 1: There is some openness to shaking things up among Canadians at large.

Few Canadians like any of Trump’s actions since he’s taken action (approach and all), but there isn’t outright apprehension to what he’s done. Approach aside, fully half of Canadians are at least somewhat onside with his decisions to pause USAID, create DOGE and bring Russia and Ukraine to the table. They just don’t like how he’s gone about it.

What Canadians are not open to is tariffs, particularly for Canada and Mexico. Here, nearly 8 in 10 oppose these decisions outright.

Still, there is a real openness to the kinds of issues Trump has chosen to work towards in his short time in office thus far.

Finding 2: This is an even larger challenge for Pierre Poilievre and the Conservatives.

First, because Conservatives are more likely than average to say Trump is taking about the right issues. Putting aside whether or not they like the approach, many more Conservative voters like the ideas or issues Trump has chosen to focus on.

But there is more to it. Conservative voters tend to take a much more nuanced approach. LPC and NDP voters tend to outright disagree with what and how Trump is leading. While CPC voters, are more likely to protest the how, but not the what.

Conservative voters also varies widely from issue to issue. Some actions by Trump are downright unacceptable (like the rest of Canadians they don’t like what’s happened on tariffs). But others, like negotiations with Ukraine and Russia (or at least the premise of conversations) is reasonable for many Conservative voters. Disagreeing with everything Trump says and does will be a difficult stance for the Conservative party to take.

There are also some issues where the predominant view is ‘I like this, just not how he’s doing it’. Things like the Ukrainian Russian war, DOGE and USAID pauses fall somewhere in this realm. This can be a particularly challenging place for a Conservative leader who is being asked to steer a similar course (on some issues) but take a different approach. Figuring out how to give their voters the same outcome but with a different approach (which approach is an entirely different question) is also a challenge for the Conservatives.

And finally, for other issues, there’s a clear disagreement within the current voter base about what the right thing is at all. Take USAID for example. Conservative voters are split precisely three ways: 30% like it, 36% like it but not how it’s been done, and 34% don’t like it at all. For some issues like this, no matter the stance, two thirds of voters will be put off.

Finding 3: These challenges have the potential to divide the Conservative base much more than the Liberals.

Introducing a ‘type of Conservative voter’ variable also makes things more complicated for the Conservatives. With current vote changing so sharply, I created a new variable that measures their loyalty to a particular party over their voting lifetime, rather than just a moment in time (today, or the last time they cast a ballot). This creates a number of categories, two of which we will dive into here: those who always vote CPC and those who sometimes vote CPC.

Some good news for the Conservatives is that these two groups agree on tariffs; more often than not, they don’t like them. But there are other points of tension.

There is moderate disagreement on DOGE and the Ukraine and Russia conversations. Those who always vote CPC are inclined to say they like both the stance and the approach. While those who sometimes vote Conservative like the idea, just not the approach.

There are others however, that come with much greater dissent in opinion. On USAID, the most common view of ‘always Conservative’ voters is that they like this and how it’s been done. The majority of ‘sometimes’ voters don’t like it at all.

The same is true for banning trans athletes from participating in women’s sports. The majority of ‘always Conservative’ voters like this and how it’s been done, while the most common view among the ‘sometimes Conservative’ voters is that they don’t like this idea at all.

Satisfying both the base and the ‘sometimes’ voters on Trump issues will be a difficult balance for the Conservatives.

The Upshot

Whether it’s a ballot box question or not, what’s happening in the south is influencing Canada- including the Conservative party’s voter base. Figuring out how to respond to what is happening down South, and directly up to Canada will be a challenge for all political leaders in the coming months.  

Still, there are opportunities for any leaders and an open question as to who becomes the Prime Minister Canadians are hoping to see during this time.

When it comes down to it, more often than not Canadians want a Prime Minister that works to find common ground with President Trump (61%), and not make him an enemy (39%).

This is what all Conservative voters agree on: 71% among ‘always Conservative’ voters, and 66% among ‘sometimes Conservative’ voters.

But it’s what divides the Liberals: 53% among ‘always Liberal’ voters, and 60% among ‘sometimes Liberal’ voters.

For those that sometimes vote Liberal and sometimes vote Conservative, 60% want our Prime Minister to find common ground.

In some past research we’ve done Poilievre is also best positioned to fill the role of finding common ground (Canadians are more inclined to say he and Trump can agree on things and work together), but as the relationship between the two countries evolves (and an election on the horizon) there are opportunities for any federal leader to show Canadians how they can navigate the Canada-US relationship through these tense times.both contain the everyday pressures at home and confront the potential tumult brewing beyond our borders.

Methodology

The survey was conducted with 1,701 Canadians aged 18 and over from March 10 to 12, 2025. A random sample of panelists were invited to complete the survey from a set partner panel based on the Lucid exchange platform. These partners are typically double opt-in survey panels, blended to manage out potential skews in the data from a single source.

The margin of error for a comparable probability-based random sample of the same size is +/- 2.39%, 19 times out of 20.

The data were weighted according to census data to ensure that the sample matched Canada’s population according to age, gender, educational attainment, and region. Totals may not add up to 100 due to rounding.

Abacus Data follows the CRIC Public Opinion Research Standards and Disclosure Requirements that can be found here:  https://canadianresearchinsightscouncil.ca/standards/

ABOUT ABACUS DATA

We are Canada’s most sought-after, influential, and impactful polling and market research firm. We are hired by many of North America’s most respected and influential brands and organizations.

We use the latest technology, sound science, and deep experience to generate top-flight research-based advice to our clients. We offer global research capacity with a strong focus on customer service, attention to detail, and exceptional value.

And we are growing throughout all parts of Canada and the United States and have capacity for new clients who want high quality research insights with enlightened hospitality.

Our record speaks for itself: we were one of the most accurate pollsters conducting research during the 2021 Canadian election following up on our outstanding record in the 2019, 2015, and 2011 federal elections.

Contact us with any questions.

Find out more about how we can help your organization by downloading our corporate profile and service offering.

Abacus Data Poll: What do Canadians expect and want a Carney or Poilievre government to do, and why it matters.

Political campaigns are about more than promises; they are about perceptions. Voters carry in their minds a picture of what a leader will do once in office. That perception is then measured against another all-important question: should they do it? The answers to both questions—will they and should they—colour not only election outcomes but the tone and substance of national debate.

In our latest Abacus Data national survey, the first of the 2025 Canadian election campaign, we asked Canadians about their expectations of a hypothetical Liberal government led by Mark Carney and a Conservative government led by Pierre Poilievre. We also inquired whether people believe these new governments should take the policy actions they’re perceived as likely to take. These dual perspectives help reveal not just whether a policy is expected, but whether it’s wanted. And for the two frontrunners vying to replace Justin Trudeau’s government, these findings shine a spotlight on what could be pivotal vulnerabilities and opportunities.

What Canadians Expect of a Carney-led Government—and Whether They Want It

When asked what a Mark Carney-led Liberal government would be likely to do, respondents offered a mix of certainty, uncertainty, and conditional belief. A majority (57%) think such a government will manage the Canadian economy effectively through a difficult period, though only about one in four (23%) feel definite about that assessment. Similarly, 56% believe a Carney government will make it harder to own a gun in Canada, and 56% think it will deal with climate change seriously. Meanwhile, 56% also say they expect Carney to protect Canadian workers from the impact of tariffs that might come from U.S. policies—a crucial source of concern for exporters, manufacturers, and labour groups.

Support for foreign aid and the desire for a new direction both hover near the halfway mark. Just over half (53%) think the Liberals under Carney will maintain the amount Canada currently spends on foreign aid.

One of the more striking and important findings is that fewer than half (49%) believe Carney would “take Canada in a different direction than Justin Trudeau.” Importantly, of those 49%, only 16% say they feel definite that Carney will pivot sharply away from Trudeau’s approach. This hesitancy points to a real communications hurdle for Carney: Canadians consistently report a “broad and deep desire for change,” but they are not fully convinced that Carney represents that break.

From a strategic point of view, addressing this uncertainty is job number one for the Carney campaign. If Canadians primarily desire change, and Carney struggles to persuade them that he actually embodies a new direction, he may fail to harness that appetite in the months to come.

“Should” Carney Do These Things?

Public preferences about what a Carney-led government should do are telling. Fully 91% say the government should manage the economy effectively through this difficult period (61% “definitely should,” 30% “probably should”). Similarly high numbers want to see Carney protect Canadian workers from the impact of U.S. tariffs (90%) and make housing more affordable (also 90%). Canadians are aware of the housing crisis affecting every region of the country and want immediate, tangible measures—whether that’s through new supply initiatives, financial incentives, or more stringent regulations on speculators.

A similarly high percentage (88%) want Carney to take Canada in a different direction from Justin Trudeau. But as noted, far fewer than that are convinced he will do it. The gap between a strong “should do” consensus and a more tepid “will do” perception underscores Carney’s main credibility challenge.

Balancing the federal budget within five years is another area where Canadians show strong enthusiasm: 85% say Carney should aim to do so, with 41% definite on that front. Meanwhile, 77% believe he should deal seriously with climate change, while 73% want him to make it harder to own a gun in Canada. On personal income tax cuts, 76% of Canadians favour them, although fewer (31%) expect to actually see those cuts happen under Carney. This combination points to a policy environment where Canadians support a diverse set of actions—some typically progressive, some traditionally centrist or conservative. The unifying theme is that the vast majority simply want to see concrete results and not just talk.

What Canadians Expect of a Poilievre-led Government—and Whether They Want It

Turning to the Conservative side, we asked what Canadians think Pierre Poilievre and his government will do if they win, and whether they should do it. We have tracked these perceptions over the past few years so have some longitudinal data to compare.

There is a substantial proportion of Canadians who believe Poilievre’s government will eliminate the national carbon tax (62%), cut all public funding to the English CBC (53%), and end the national dental care program the Liberals established (52%). Similarly, 51% think he will end the national childcare program, while 47% believe he will “make it harder for women to have an abortion.” All of those perceptions have increased since the first time we asked back in May 2023.

This last point stands out: only 25% of Canadians want the Conservatives to restrict abortion access, yet nearly half suspect that Poilievre might attempt to do so. Such a perception represents a risk for Poilievre, because it can galvanize voters who lean pro-choice or worry about a reversal of rights.

Interestingly, while 62% think Poilievre will eliminate the carbon tax, just 10% definitely expect him to “take dealing with climate change seriously.” The numbers do show some fraction of Canadians believe Poilievre might do both—though a majority appear to see the removal of the carbon tax and climate action as mutually exclusive. On the other hand, 41% say they definitely want the party to address housing affordability, and in fact, 90% in total want the Conservatives to tackle that challenge. Poilievre has spent considerable political capital elevating the housing affordability issue, so it’s unsurprising that many think he will deliver on that file (41% say “definitely” or “probably” will, and 15% are unsure). Reinforcing this perceived focus on affordability—and showcasing a realistic plan—may be a defining aspect of Poilievre’s appeal to younger voters and Canadians worried about the cost of living.

“Should” Poilievre Do These Things?

When we gauge whether Canadians want Poilievre to do the things they think he might do, a clearer fault line emerges. A majority want him to pursue affordability (90%), balance the federal budget within four years (80%), and cut personal income taxes (69%). Two-thirds (69%) say the Conservatives should eliminate the national carbon tax—slightly less than the proportion that believe Poilievre will do so, but still a substantial number. It’s an indication that while the carbon tax has some defenders, a considerable swath of Canadians either distrust its effectiveness, or see it as an excessive economic burden at a time of inflation and recessionary threats. The fact that Mark Carney has tried to neutralize this issue by eliminating in his first days in office shows why he did so.

However, there is far less appetite for ending national childcare (33% say it “definitely” or “probably should” be ended) and even less for scrapping national dentalcare (28%). Canadians appear to value these new social programs: though they might be open to minor modifications, they do not want the rug pulled out from under them. A more explicit vulnerability for Poilievre is on abortion: only 25% believe the Conservatives should restrict access, but 47% expect they will. That divide is a serious risk area for a party aiming to attract moderate voters while also appeasing more traditionally conservative or socially conservative supporters.

Another interesting dimension is immigration. Only 33% want a Conservative government to welcome as many immigrants as the Liberals currently do, yet in general, Canadians tend to hold fairly positive attitudes toward immigration—especially around economic immigration and the need to fill labour market gaps. Nonetheless, it suggests a wedge issue the party might exploit if it can do so without appearing antagonistic or xenophobic to those in the centre.

Key Conclusions and Strategic Takeaways

These data highlight that what voters think a politician will do is as important as what they actually want them to do. For Mark Carney, the top-line takeaways are straightforward:

Protecting workers from tariffs: About 56% believe he will do it; 90% believe he should do it. There is alignment here—he’s perceived as relatively strong on financial and economic matters.

Making housing more affordable: Only 41% believe he will, yet 90% think he should. There’s a huge gap between the desire for action and confidence in that action.

Offering a new direction from Trudeau: Only 49% of Canadians think Carney will provide this new direction, even though 88% want him to. Overcoming any conflation with Trudeau’s legacy is critical if Carney is to harness Canadians’ significant appetite for change.

    For Pierre Poilievre, some opportunities are equally visible:

    Housing affordability and tax cuts: These remain core strengths. A large majority want him to tackle them, and a fair number believe he will. Doubling down on these issues could sustain or widen his appeal.

    Climate change, social programs, and abortion: These are vulnerable spots. Many suspect he will roll back progress (or shift in an unwelcome direction) on these fronts, yet they don’t want him to. So he must walk a fine line to reassure Canadians—particularly moderate voters—that these fears are misplaced.

      Ultimately, both leaders face a perception gap between what Canadians want and what they believe each leader will deliver. For Carney, that gap is largely about proving he offers genuine renewal rather than a continuation of the Trudeau era. For Poilievre, it’s about convincing voters that his focus on affordability and taxes does not come with unwelcome changes to social programs or women’s rights.

      Campaign messaging that addresses these anxieties directly could decide who ends up winning the confidence of a country demanding both prosperity and progress. And in elections, as in all politics, bridging the gap between what people think you’ll do and what they want you to do can be the difference between electoral victory and defeat.

      gender, we see further nuance. Younger women (18–44) are among the most likely to emphasize both affordability (53%) and healthcare improvements (22%). Meanwhile, older men and women (45+) are more inclined than their younger counterparts to choose “Dealing with Donald Trump” as a key factor. These gaps underscore how age and personal circumstances shape what feels urgent or potentially disruptive.

      Put simply, if the ballot question becomes “Is your life getting more expensive, and do we need a fundamental change to fix it?” Conservatives and Poilievre win. If the question shifts to “Do we need a steady hand to protect Canada from Trump’s unpredictability (and the risks beyond our borders)?” then I think Liberals and Carney win.

      Methodology

      The survey was conducted with 1,500 Canadians eligible to vote from March 17 to 20, 2025. A random sample of panelists were invited to complete the survey from a set of partner panels based on the Lucid exchange platform. These partners are typically double opt-in survey panels, blended to manage out potential skews in the data from a single source.

      The margin of error for a comparable probability-based random sample of the same size is +/- 2.5%, 19 times out of 20.

      The data were weighted according to census data to ensure that the sample matched Canada’s population according to age, gender, educational attainment, and region. Totals may not add up to 100 due to rounding.

      This survey was paid for by Abacus Data Inc.

      Abacus Data follows the CRIC Public Opinion Research Standards and Disclosure Requirements that can be found here:  https://canadianresearchinsightscouncil.ca/standards/

      ABOUT ABACUS DATA

      We are Canada’s most sought-after, influential, and impactful polling and market research firm. We are hired by many of North America’s most respected and influential brands and organizations.

      We use the latest technology, sound science, and deep experience to generate top-flight research-based advice to our clients. We offer global research capacity with a strong focus on customer service, attention to detail, and exceptional value.

      And we are growing throughout all parts of Canada and the United States and have capacity for new clients who want high quality research insights with enlightened hospitality.

      Our record speaks for itself: we were one of the most accurate pollsters conducting research during the 2021 Canadian election following up on our outstanding record in the 2019, 2015, and 2011 federal elections.

      Contact us with any questions.

      Find out more about how we can help your organization by downloading our corporate profile and service offering.

      Abacus Data Poll: Liberals take lead for the first time in years.

      Our latest survey, completed between March 20 and 25, 2025 interviewed 2,000 eligible voters and asked a few of our usual Canadian politics tracking questions. We will have another deeper dive into the election out this weekend. Be sure to subscribe to our newsletter so you never miss our polls.

      Liberals take a numerical lead for the first time since 2022.

      If the election was held today, we see the Liberals opening up a 1-point lead over the Conservatives among all committed voters. 38% would vote Liberal compared with 37% who would vote Conservative. The NDP is down again in third at 11% Since last week, the Conservatives are down 2, the Liberals are up 2 and the NDP is down 1.

      Regionally, the Conservatives and Liberals are statistically tied in B.C., the Liberals now lead in Ontario (by 4), the Liberals lead by 12 in Quebec and by 9 in Atlantic Canada. The Conservatives lead in the Prairies.

      Past Voters and Certainty to Vote

      One really important shift is the growing number of previous Conservative Party voters who now say they will vote Liberal. 12% of past CPC voters say they would vote Liberal today. At the same time, 13% of past Liberal voters say they will vote Conservative.

      But it’s the NDP numbers that are most revealing. More than half of past NDP voters say they are voting for another party or are undecided with 1 in 4 (26%) saying they will vote Liberal and 12% saying they will vote Conservative.

      Among those most certain to vote, the Liberal lead grows to 3 points (40% to 37%) with the NDP falling 10%.

      For the first time in our tracking, more Canadians now believe the Liberals will win the next election than do who think the Conservatives will.

      What is Driving This?

      Below the horse race, there are some fascinating and important shifts happening.

      For example, when it comes to the federal government’s approval rating, there has been a complete reset of impressions. Today 41% approve of the Carney government’s performance compared with 25% who disapprove. Just look at the shift in only a matter of weeks.

      Feelings about Carney: Views about Liberal Leader Mark Carney are largely unchanged from last week. He has a net favourable impression of +11.

      Feelings about Poilievre: Poilievre’s net impression stands at -5, a slight improvement from last week. 39% of Canadians have a positive view of Mr. Poilievre, only 2-points less than Mr. Carney.

      Feelings about Jagmeet SIngh: Singh’s net impression is at -12, largely unchanged from last week. Mr. Singh remains the least popular of the three main party leaders in Canada.

      Learn about the game-changing tool from the Abacus Data team that makes it possible to estimate polling results to the riding level to improve advocacy and government relations.

      Trump: Impressions Continue to Deteriorate

      Views towards U.S. President Donald Trump continue to get worse. Today only 12% of Canadians have a positive view of President Trump compared with 78% who have a negative view – an all-time high. At -66, President Trump’s net favourable is worse than any we’ve measure for any political leader.

      Of note, 63% of those with a positive view of Donald Trump would vote Conservative today. Another 8% would vote for the People’s Party.

      The Upshot: Advantage Liberal

      The Liberals have firmly taken pole position for the first time in years, and these new numbers reflect a broader shift that goes beyond a simple bump in the polls. Since Mark Carney took the reins, Canadians seem to have reset their impressions, putting Justin Trudeau firmly in the rearview mirror. There’s a sense that many voters have let go of lingering grievances tied to the old Liberal leadership, creating fresh space for Carney’s message to take root. Litigating the Trudeau era appears less and less effective as public attention pivots to where each party will lead us next—especially in the face of growing global volatility and threats posed by Donald Trump’s presidency.

      Critically, the Liberals aren’t just ahead on vote intention; they’re also more likely to turn out at the ballot box, suggesting a real enthusiasm advantage. Carney himself is in positive territory, which underscores the importance of strong personal brands in rallying both committed supporters and swing voters. Meanwhile, the Conservative brand hasn’t imploded, but it’s taken hits in key regions and demographics. With so many Canadians eager to move beyond past baggage, it looks like the leaders who can convincingly paint a forward-looking picture—and speak directly to the challenges posed by Trump—will have the upper hand.

      Methodology

      The survey was conducted with 2,000 Canadians eligible to vote from March 20 to 25, 2025. A random sample of panelists were invited to complete the survey from a set of partner panels based on the Lucid exchange platform. These partners are typically double opt-in survey panels, blended to manage out potential skews in the data from a single source.

      The margin of error for a comparable probability-based random sample of the same size is +/- 2.2%, 19 times out of 20.

      The data were weighted according to census data to ensure that the sample matched Canada’s population according to age, gender, educational attainment, and region. Totals may not add up to 100 due to rounding.

      This survey was paid for by Abacus Data Inc.

      Abacus Data follows the CRIC Public Opinion Research Standards and Disclosure Requirements that can be found here:  https://canadianresearchinsightscouncil.ca/standards/

      ABOUT ABACUS DATA

      We are Canada’s most sought-after, influential, and impactful polling and market research firm. We are hired by many of North America’s most respected and influential brands and organizations.

      We use the latest technology, sound science, and deep experience to generate top-flight research-based advice to our clients. We offer global research capacity with a strong focus on customer service, attention to detail, and exceptional value.

      And we are growing throughout all parts of Canada and the United States and have capacity for new clients who want high quality research insights with enlightened hospitality.

      Our record speaks for itself: we were one of the most accurate pollsters conducting research during the 2021 Canadian election following up on our outstanding record in the 2019, 2015, and 2011 federal elections.

      Contact us with any questions.

      Find out more about how we can help your organization by downloading our corporate profile and service offering.

      How an emerging precarity mindset is impacting public opinion and the Canadian election

      We’re at a turning point in Canadian public opinion: once defined by a scarcity mindset—where rising housing costs, healthcare strains, and job insecurity forced many to scramble for essentials—our collective outlook is now shifting toward something else: precarity. While concerns around what is available today still matter, the fear that core systems (healthcare, housing, social services) may fail is raising the stakes. Recent Trump tariffs and threats on Canadian sovereignty only add to this sense of instability and uncertainty, amplifying broader concerns about how resilient our society really is.

      We recently released new research that indicates more and more Canadians are delaying major life decisions, and are worried that their finances and communities might not hold up. This isn’t just about feeling squeezed right now; it’s about questioning whether the future itself is secure. With an election in full swing, these anxieties will inevitably shape both voter choices and broader political conversations.

      In this post, we’ll unpack how this mindset of uncertainty is playing out in the Canadian election. We will dig deeper into the precarity mindset and what it means for political behaviour. Understanding this shift is essential to offering genuine stability at a time when so much feels up in the air.

      Measuring the Precarity Mindset: Five Levels of Vulnerability

      For this research and beyond, we wanted to move past simple measures of economic outlook and capture the broader sense of vulnerability many Canadians are voicing. To do this, we created a “precarity index” that groups respondents into five levels of precarity based on how strongly they feel the pinch—or the panic—about future uncertainty.

      From questions rating statements like “Ongoing global events often leave me feeling unsure” or “Frequent economic changes cause me to feel financially insecure” on a scale from 0 to 10. The scores below are the average rating. A higher rating signifies a higher degree of precarity and concern about that item.

      Leading the pack, at 6.8, is the concern that ongoing global events create a constant sense of uncertainty about the future—reflecting how international headlines can unsettle everyday life. Close behind, at 6.6, is the worry that frequent economic changes foster financial insecurity. Two factors tied at 6.4: the challenge of making long-term plans in a turbulent world, and the anxiety caused by the overall unpredictability of life.

      Climate change fears land at 5.3, signalling that while it’s not top of mind for everyone, it’s definitely a concern for many. Confidence that governments will shield Canadians from major crises hovers around 5.2, suggesting a lukewarm trust in public institutions. Finally, anxieties about rapid technological advances—like automation—sits at 5.1, underscoring the lingering unease around future job security.

      Using these responses, we identified five groups:

      Low Precarity (about 9%): The most confident (or ignorant depending on your perspective) Canadians—less likely to perceive sudden shifts as immediate threats to their personal wellbeing.

      Mild Precarity (about 14%): Some worries exist, but they believe they can weather most storms.

      Moderate Precarity (about 38%): The largest group, who feel regular anxiety yet aren’t convinced catastrophe is imminent. They’re concerned but still see room for optimism.

      High Precarity (about 30%): Here, stress about finances, economic security, climate change, and technological change shapes day-to-day decisions, from career moves to voting intentions.

      Extreme Precarity (about 9%): The most anxious segment, fearing that sudden and long-term disruptions—economic, environmental, or social—could upend their lives, and seeking security in the face of this intense sense of precarity.

      Demographic Differences: Age, Gender, and Income

      When we look at how age, gender, and income factor into these categories, several trends emerge:

      • Age: There is a clear relationship with age and having a precarity index. Younger adults (under 30) are overrepresented in the High and Extreme Precarity categories and the incidence of precarity drops as Canadians age.
      • Gender: Women lean more heavily toward the High and Extreme ends of the precarity scale than men. Persistent wage gaps, caregiving responsibilities, and concerns about social safety nets amplify feelings of vulnerability.
      • Household Income: Lower-income households show higher precarity, but it’s not exclusive to them. Even Canadians with higher incomes report serious concerns—especially if they’re worried about job automation or market volatility undermining what they’ve built.

      How Precarity Affects Voting Behaviour

      Our data shows a clear relationship between level of precarity and federal vote intention. Among those with Low Precarity, over half say they’d vote Conservative, compared to only 15% of those in Extreme Precarity. Conversely, Liberal support surges to around 60% among the extremely precarious—significantly higher than among more secure Canadians. This pattern suggests that the more anxious people feel about Canada’s economic and social environment, the more likely they are to gravitate toward parties they believe will deliver immediate relief or strong government interventions.

      However, partisan attachment—that is, identifying as a member or supporter of a particular party—doesn’t neatly align with precarity. Even respondents who call themselves “Conservative” appear at varying levels of precarity, and some ultimately plan to vote Liberal or NDP when pressed on their ballot choice. This indicates that while partisan identification remains an important part of how Canadians see themselves, actual voting behaviour can shift under the weight of an ongoing precarity mindset.

      What this means in practical terms is that some Canadians who still identify with Conservative ideals may, in the face of financial or social anxiety, opt for today’s Liberal Party led by Mark Carney at the ballot box. Precarity, in other words, can shake even deeply held political allegiances.

      Beyond the Ballot Box

      Our survey data shows that the level of precarity someone feels is a significant factor in shaping their view of Donald Trump, with more precarious Canadians generally holding more negative opinions of the U.S. President. Among those with Low Precarity, just over one in five (21%) have a mostly or very positive view of Trump, while that figure drops to 16% for those in Mild Precarity. The percentage continues to decline for Moderate (13%) and High (13%) groups, reaching 12% among those in Extreme Precarity. In other words, the more vulnerable or anxious individuals feel about their personal economic and social standing, the less likely they are to have a favourable impression of Donald Trump – likely because Trump himself has created the precarity they seek shelter and protection from.

      Interestingly, this relationship does not appear to extend to how people perceive the overall direction of Canada or which issues they prioritize at the ballot box. Canadians at all levels of precarity have fairly similar views on whether the country is on the right track or off on the wrong track. Even within the High and Extreme Precarity groups—those most uneasy about their futures—opinion is fairly split, suggesting that personal vulnerability does not automatically translate into a specific stance on national well-being.

      Likewise, when asked to choose the top issues that will influence their vote—like cost of living, housing affordability, or healthcare improvements—individuals across all precarity levels generally highlight the same priorities. While those with higher precarity may feel a greater sense of urgency, the overall set of concerns is consistent across the board.

      Taken together, these findings suggest that personal anxiety does shape how Canadians perceive certain international figures—notably Donald Trump—but doesn’t necessarily inform their broader outlook on where the country is heading or which issues they find most important.

      What differs is the intensity of worry, not the issue itself. Nearly everyone feels the pinch at the grocery store or the pump; almost everyone sees mounting pressures on the healthcare system. Even climate concerns cut across the most of ideological spectrum. The difference is that people in the High or Extreme Precarity groups may be more anxious for swift, decisive action—having lost faith that “the system” will fix itself.

      In other words, the entire electorate agrees on the big-ticket problems. The question is how urgently they need them addressed, and by whom.

      Broader Election Implications

      So what does the precarity mindset mean for the current federal election—and Canada’s future political landscape?

      Voter Fluidity: Many voters are open to persuasion. While some remain firmly in a party’s camp, a significant share of Canadians—especially in High or Extreme Precarity—are willing to move if they hear concrete, credible solutions to their anxieties.

      No ‘One-Size-Fits-All’ Approach: Parties can’t rely on a single message or assume that targeting one demographic will be enough. Both younger and older Canadians are feeling vulnerable, though for different reasons. Policies must speak to diverse anxieties, from economic security, to housing to healthcare and climate resilience.

      Beyond Election Day: This mindset shift from scarcity to precarity won’t vanish once the ballots are counted. Canadians will continue to seek long-term stability, especially in the face of threats from Donald Trump, demanding more effective governance, tangible economic security, and stronger social safety nets.

      Ultimately, our evolving sense of vulnerability is reshaping how Canadians make decisions—from the brands we buy to the political parties we support. Leaders who acknowledge the depth of this precariousness and propose meaningful, lasting solutions have a real opportunity to connect with voters across demographic lines. Conversely, those who dismiss or underestimate these anxieties risk missing a central undercurrent of this election and beyond.

      Final Thoughts
      Our latest data shows that Canadians aren’t just squeezed financially—they’re worried about whether key systems will hold up under the weight of global uncertainty. This precarity mindset crosses income brackets and party lines, complicating traditional assumptions about voter blocks. It’s also a warning sign: a public that feels insecure and unheard is a public open to political realignment. Just ask Justin Trudeau the effect when this happens.

      If campaigns want to resonate in this new reality, they’ll need more than catchy slogans. They’ll need plans that signal genuine stability—affordable housing, reliable healthcare, and tangible readiness for future challenges. And whichever party forms government next, the work won’t end on election night. Canadians will be watching closely to see if today’s promises turn into tomorrow’s peace of mind.

      Because in an age of precarity, trust is the currency that matters most.

      Methodology

      The survey was conducted with 1,500 Canadians eligible to vote from March 17 to 20, 2025. A random sample of panelists were invited to complete the survey from a set of partner panels based on the Lucid exchange platform. These partners are typically double opt-in survey panels, blended to manage out potential skews in the data from a single source.

      The margin of error for a comparable probability-based random sample of the same size is +/- 2.5%, 19 times out of 20.

      The data were weighted according to census data to ensure that the sample matched Canada’s population according to age, gender, educational attainment, and region. Totals may not add up to 100 due to rounding.

      This survey was paid for by Abacus Data Inc.

      Abacus Data follows the CRIC Public Opinion Research Standards and Disclosure Requirements that can be found here:  https://canadianresearchinsightscouncil.ca/standards/

      ABOUT ABACUS DATA

      We are Canada’s most sought-after, influential, and impactful polling and market research firm. We are hired by many of North America’s most respected and influential brands and organizations.

      We use the latest technology, sound science, and deep experience to generate top-flight research-based advice to our clients. We offer global research capacity with a strong focus on customer service, attention to detail, and exceptional value.

      And we are growing throughout all parts of Canada and the United States and have capacity for new clients who want high quality research insights with enlightened hospitality.

      Our record speaks for itself: we were one of the most accurate pollsters conducting research during the 2021 Canadian election following up on our outstanding record in the 2019, 2015, and 2011 federal elections.

      Contact us with any questions.

      Find out more about how we can help your organization by downloading our corporate profile and service offering.

      Abacus Data Poll: Defining the ballot box question

      With the election campaign now underway, one overarching question looms: is this a campaign about change and scarcity, or about security in a time of deep precarity?

      Our latest polling points to a country wrestling with competing impulses—on one hand, a strong desire for a shift in direction; on the other, a fear of disruption in a period of uncertainty.

      At the heart of these competing narratives is what voters identify as their top-of-mind issues. Topping the list, nearly half (45%) say that “Reducing your cost of living” is one of their two most important priorities. Next, a third (33%) highlight “Dealing with Donald Trump and the impact of his decisions,” suggesting that concerns about how American policy and political drama might spill over the border remain potent. “Improving Canada’s healthcare system” (20%), “Making housing more affordable” (19%), and “Growing the economy” (17%) round out the top five.

      For many Canadians—especially those under 30—there is a clear sense that a rising cost of living and stagnant wages form a backdrop of scarcity. Among younger Canadians (18–29), 47% pick “cost of living” as a prime concern, while affordable housing also ranks high (28%), reflecting the squeezed conditions of those trying to find their footing in major urban centres. They are also 10-points more likely to rate the economy as a top issue than those over 60. By contrast, older Canadians (60 and over) remain attuned to both cost of living (38%), healthcare (27%) and the implications of Donald Trump (50%), particularly worries about threats to Canadian soverignty.

      When we break it down by age and gender, we see further nuance. Younger women (18–44) are among the most likely to emphasize both affordability (53%) and healthcare improvements (22%). Meanwhile, older men and women (45+) are more inclined than their younger counterparts to choose “Dealing with Donald Trump” as a key factor. These gaps underscore how age and personal circumstances shape what feels urgent or potentially disruptive.

      This tension between change and security is reflected in how respondents view the idea of keeping Prime Minister Mark Carney and the Liberals in power. A solid majority (57%) say “it is definitely time for a change in government,” with another 15% saying change would be nice but not paramount. Only about one in five (21%) strongly favours re-electing Carney, suggesting the Liberals face an uphill battle to convince Canadians that continuity is preferable to starting fresh.

      Yet the vote intentions reveal a split anchored largely in the issues people care about most. Of those who prioritize “Reducing your cost of living,” nearly half (46%) lean Conservative, whereas 27% lean Liberal and 15% back the NDP. But for those who say “Dealing with Donald Trump” is paramount, over half (54%) indicate they’d vote Liberal, compared to only 26% Conservative. Among Canadians who focus on “Growing the economy,” the divide is similarly stark: 54% go Conservative, with 30% Liberal.

      Put simply, if the ballot question becomes “Is your life getting more expensive, and do we need a fundamental change to fix it?” Conservatives and Poilievre win. If the question shifts to “Do we need a steady hand to protect Canada from Trump’s unpredictability (and the risks beyond our borders)?” then I think Liberals and Carney win.

      In these early days of the campaign, each party will try to define the core issue. The Conservatives will hammer away on cost-of-living pressures, taxes, and economic frustrations, framing the election as a chance to uproot a tired government and restore a sense of fiscal and economic sanity.

      Liberals, in turn, will invite Canadians to consider whether they can trust a change to an unproven leader (versus their experienced one) amidst the volatility of a revived Trump-era politics. For many, it comes down to whether the anxiety they feel is best addressed by turning the page—or by holding tightly to what they know in hopes of ensuring security in a time of global precarity.

      This tug-of-war—change and scarcity vs. security and precarity—will shape the next few weeks of the campaign. Later this week, my colleague Eddie Sheppard and I will share some new data and analysis on the relationship between having a precarity mindset and vote.

      As this data suggests, neither message is guaranteed to prevail. Canadians are listening carefully, weighing their personal experiences against the broader political climate, and looking for leadership that can both contain the everyday pressures at home and confront the potential tumult brewing beyond our borders.

      Methodology

      The survey was conducted with 1,500 Canadians eligible to vote from March 17 to 20, 2025. A random sample of panelists were invited to complete the survey from a set of partner panels based on the Lucid exchange platform. These partners are typically double opt-in survey panels, blended to manage out potential skews in the data from a single source.

      The margin of error for a comparable probability-based random sample of the same size is +/- 2.5%, 19 times out of 20.

      The data were weighted according to census data to ensure that the sample matched Canada’s population according to age, gender, educational attainment, and region. Totals may not add up to 100 due to rounding.

      This survey was paid for by Abacus Data Inc.

      Abacus Data follows the CRIC Public Opinion Research Standards and Disclosure Requirements that can be found here:  https://canadianresearchinsightscouncil.ca/standards/

      ABOUT ABACUS DATA

      We are Canada’s most sought-after, influential, and impactful polling and market research firm. We are hired by many of North America’s most respected and influential brands and organizations.

      We use the latest technology, sound science, and deep experience to generate top-flight research-based advice to our clients. We offer global research capacity with a strong focus on customer service, attention to detail, and exceptional value.

      And we are growing throughout all parts of Canada and the United States and have capacity for new clients who want high quality research insights with enlightened hospitality.

      Our record speaks for itself: we were one of the most accurate pollsters conducting research during the 2021 Canadian election following up on our outstanding record in the 2019, 2015, and 2011 federal elections.

      Contact us with any questions.

      Find out more about how we can help your organization by downloading our corporate profile and service offering.

      Abacus Data Poll: What’s Happening in Nova Scotia?

      At Abacus Data, we eat, sleep and breathe politics, and we’ve been keeping a close eye on what’s happening across the country as the 2025 federal election gets underway.

      Today, we’re focusing on Nova Scotia – a province that’s known for its great hospitality, forestry, farming, and vibrant ocean economy. 

      We love Atlantic Canada! As you may have heard, we recently opened a new office in Halifax and are offering new and existing clients in the Atlantic region the same depth, quality and national experience that has made our company what it is today.   

      As part of our continued growth and investment in Atlantic Canada, we have established a new Nova Scotia omnibus survey, which we intend to run regularly, interviewing 600 adult Nova Scotians each wave. Below, you will find some of the highlights from our first Nova Scotia omnibus survey, plus some detailed analysis comparing how Nova Scotians feel about their province, the country, and the political choices ahead, with our latest national results.

      We also encourage you to check out the new national poll we released yesterday to kick-off our 2025 federal election coverage, and keep watching this newsletter, our website and social media for frequent polling results and deep insights throughout the federal campaign.  

      Now to Nova Scotia!

      Nova Scotians Want Change, But Not Always, in Every Way 

      As the 2025 federal election starts, Bluenosers – like all Canadians – are seeking change. According to our new Nova Scotia polling, just 31% of Nova Scotians think things in Canada are headed in the right direction, and an even smaller share (10%) think things in the World are headed in the right direction. These levels are about the same as we’re picking up in our national polls.   

      However, when Nova Scotians are asked to reflect upon the current state of affairs in their home province, they are slightly more optimistic, with 36% of Nova Scotians thinking things in the province are headed in the right direction and the same proportion (36%) thinking things are off-track, resulting a net neutral.

      This difference is an important reminder that political feelings are often more complicated than they appear. One can be very frustrated with the state of the World, and Canada, but be perfectly okay with what’s happening in their province, region or neighbourhood. That’s something the federal leaders and their candidates should keep in mind as they meet voters on their home turf.    

      The fact that as many Nova Scotians ‘like’ as ‘dislike’ the direction of the province at this point in time is also pretty good news for Premier Houston and his government, as they continue to govern amidst the chaos of the second Trump presidency.   

      Two-thirds of Nova Scotians Certain to Vote

      When asked about their federal voting plans, 67% of Nova Scotians say they will “definitely” cast a ballot in the next/current federal election. This level of engagement is slightly higher it is in our national polling.   

      However, in Nova Scotia, voting-certainty varies significantly by party choice. Right now, those who say they would vote Conservative or Liberal “if a federal election was held today” are slightly more committed to “definitely” voting than NDP supporters. 73% of committed Conservatives and 70% of committed Liberals say they are “definitely” going to vote, compared to 58% of committed NDP supporters.   

      This big gap suggests that the Liberals and Conservatives can more confidently rely on their Nova Scotia voter bases showing up on election day, whereas the NDP will need to spend more time and effort mobilizing their supporters in Nova Scotia, especially younger voters who have traditionally been more inclined to lean NDP but sometimes struggle with consistent turnout.

      A Larger Liberal Pool in Nova Scotia

      One of the most telling indicators of electoral-potential is a party’s “accessible voter pool” – in other words, how many people say they would consider voting for each political party.

      In Nova Scotia, the Liberal Party of Canada has a substantially larger accessible voter pool than the other parties.

      Right now, 61% of Nova Scotians say they are open to voting Liberal, compared with 46% for the NDP and 43% for the Conservatives.

      Why does this matter? Because in a first-past-the-post system, even small increments of growth in a party’s accessible base can translate into big seat gains, especially in a province where close races can be decided by relatively few votes.

      The Liberals enter this campaign with a broader potential foundation in Nova Scotia to build upon than the other parties.

      And who’s in the current Liberal pool in Nova Scotia?

      The current Liberal pool is a mix of 2021 Liberal, NDP and Conservative voters.

      89% of Nova Scotians that would consider voting Liberal now say they voted Liberal in the last federal election, 69% of those that would consider voting Liberal now say they voted NDP in the last federal election, and 28% of those that say they would consider voting Liberal now say they voted Conservative in the last federal election.   

      Federal Voting Intentions: Carney’s Liberals are Starting the 2025 Campaign with a 10-Point Lead in Nova Scotia

      Our new Nova Scotia polling also suggests that the Liberals are starting the 2025 campaign with a 10-point lead in the province.  

      Right now, the Liberals are at 44% in Nova Scotia. The Conservative are at 34%. The NDP is at 14%. The Greens are at 4%. And the People’s Party is at 3%.  

      Starting an election – with a ten-point lead is an advantage, but it’s not the only number to consider, especially at a moment in time like this one.  

      As our regular readers know, the public opinion landscape in Canada has been shifting. In just over two months, the Liberals went from 20% to 36% in vote intention nationally.

      Also, it’s the Conservatives, not the Liberals, who have gained the most vote-share since the last election, when we compare the current vote shares to the way Nova Scotians actually voted in 2021.  

      According to our latest Nova Scotia numbers, Carney’s Liberals (44%) are starting the 2025 campaign with a vote share in Nova Scotia that’s two points higher than the vote share Justin Trudeau’s Liberals earned in Nova Scotia in the 2021 federal election (42%). Pierre Poilievre’s Conservatives are starting the 2025 campaign with a vote share in Nova Scotia (34%) that is five points higher than what Erin O’Toole’s Conservatives earned in Nova Scotia in the 2021 election (29%). And the NDP is starting the 2025 campaign with a vote share in Nova Scotia (14%) that is eight points lower than its actual vote share in 2021 (22%).     

      Among the group of Nova Scotians that are most likely to vote in this election (i.e., those who say they will definitely cast a ballot in this federal election), the gap between the Liberals and Conservatives narrows a bit, with the Liberals’ jumping up two points to 46%, and the Conservatives climbing four points to 37%, and the NDP’s share drops again, down to just 12%.

      Leader Popularity: Carney, Poilievre, and Singh

      When trying to explain why Carney’s Liberals currently lead in Nova Scotia, one big factor stands out: It’s Mark Carney’s personal popularity in the province.

      Right now, forty-one percent of Nova Scotians have a positive view of the new Liberal leader, while 27% have a negative view, giving him a net favourable rating of +14.

      By contrast, Pierre Poilievre’s net rating in Nova Scotia is -20, and Jagmeet Singh’s net rating in Nova Scotia is -6.

      These results confirm that Mark Carney is much better-known and better-liked in this part of the country than he was just a few months ago.  

      For further context, we also asked survey respondents in Nova Scotia about Donald Trump, and only 11% of Nova Scotians have a positive view of U.S. president. While Trump’s not, of course, on the ballot in Canada, his threats will cast a long shadow over this election, especially if voters see or perceive any similarities between Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre and Trump-style politics.

      When respondents are asked who they would prefer to see as Prime Minister, Carney leads Poilievre by 12-points in Nova Scotia, with 17% saying they are unsure – another advantage for the Liberals.

      Gender Splits and Retention Rates in Nova Scotia

      What role, if any, is gender playing?

      Currently, Carney’s Liberals lead Poilievre’s Conservatives in Nova Scotia by a whopping 28 points among women, while the Conservatives hold a 7-point lead among men. This is a bit different that what we’re seeing in our national polling. A gender gap exists but it’s not this wide.

      And when we compare how current political preferences match up with 2021 voting behaviour in Nova Scotia, we see the Liberals holding onto 75% of their previous voters, with 10% shifting to the Conservatives and 7% still undecided. The Conservatives retain 86% of their 2021 vote, with 6% going Liberal and 3% undecided.

      The NDP, however, has lost more than a third of its previous support to the Liberals, hanging onto only about half of its last-election voters. This erosion highlights how steep a challenge the NDP faces in Nova Scotia (and likely other parts of the country), especially if it remains difficult for them to re-energize the voters who switched their support to the Liberals.

      What Issues Are Driving the Conversation in Nova Scotia?

      The issues that Nova Scotians care the most about are the same ones dominating our national polling. It’s the rising cost of living, followed closely by dealing with Donald Trump and his administration, healthcare, housing and the economy – in that order.

      Right now, 54% of Nova Scotians identify the rising cost of living as one of two most important issues facing Canada and Canadians, and 45% of Nova Scotians identify  Donald Trump and his administration as one of the two most important issues facing Canada and Canadians.

      This provincial issues-set matches the national issues-set we have been picking up in our recent national polling, with Donald Trump and his administration moving quickly for the middle to the top of the list in recent months.  

      In terms of which federal party is best able to deal with these issues, the Liberals enjoy a 17-point advantage over the Conservatives in Nova Scotia when it comes to dealing with Donald Trump, a 7-point lead in Nova Scotia on healthcare, and a 7-point lead in Nova Scotia on the economy; and the Conservatives hold a slight edge on the rising cost of living and housing.

      Interestingly, while the Liberals lead on healthcare and the economy in our Nova Scotia polling, the Conservatives currently lead on healthcare and the economy in our national polling.  

      Who is Expected to Win?

      We also asked Nova Scotians who they think will win the 2025 federal election. 39% predict a Liberal victory, while 33% think the Conservatives will win, and 25% remain unsure.

      The Upshot

      As the 2025 federal election officially begins, Nova Scotia looks more like a Liberal stronghold than a battleground. 

      The Cost of Living vs. Donald Trump
      Much like elsewhere in Canada, the cost of living is the dominant worry in Nova Scotia this spring, and affordability issues are likely to remain at the centre of the 2025 campaign.

      At the same time, Trump’s high profile in the province’s political consciousness cannot be overlooked, especially in a context where only 11% have a positive view of him.

      Should the conversation during the election focus more on Trump than affordability, this will further advantage the Liberals. At least that’s what our current Nova Scotia and national polling suggests.

      Carney’s Popularity and Poilievre’s Challenge
      As the 2025 campaign kicks-off, Mark Carney’s positive image is providing a strong anchor for the Liberal brand in Nova Scotia, and Pierre Poilievre’s net negative rating indicates that he has work to do convince voters that he is the right leader for this moment. While Poilievre still commands loyalty from most of his 2021 voters, expanding beyond his base might be critical if the Conservatives want to make gains in Nova Scotia and beyond.

      The NDP’s Steep Decline
      The collapse in NDP support is one of the biggest developments in Nova Scotia and beyond. At the moment, it appears the Liberals are the only beneficiaries of this drop, making it even more challenging for the Conservatives to overtake the Liberals in key ridings. The fate of the NDP could change if the party pivots its strategy or if Jagmeet Singh manages to galvanize younger voters. Still, the data suggest an uphill battle ahead.

      In only a few months, the federal political landscape in Nova Scotia has dramatically shifted, with the Liberals now back in the drivers-seat.

      This could change, but for now, the 2025 campaign begins close to where the 2021 one ended.

      Methodology

      The survey was conducted with 600 adult Nova Scotians over the age of 18 from March 17 to 20, 2025. A random sample of panelists were invited to complete the survey from a set of partner panels based on the Lucid exchange platform. These partners are typically double opt-in survey panels, blended to manage out potential skews in the data from a single source.

      The margin of error for a comparable probability-based random sample of the same size is +/- 4.1%, 19 times out of 20.

      The data were weighted according to census data to ensure that the sample matched Canada’s population according to age, gender, educational attainment, and region. Totals may not add up to 100 due to rounding.

      This survey was paid for by Abacus Data Inc.

      Abacus Data follows the CRIC Public Opinion Research Standards and Disclosure Requirements that can be found here:  https://canadianresearchinsightscouncil.ca/standards/

      ABOUT ABACUS DATA

      We are Canada’s most sought-after, influential, and impactful polling and market research firm. We are hired by many of North America’s most respected and influential brands and organizations.

      We use the latest technology, sound science, and deep experience to generate top-flight research-based advice to our clients. We offer global research capacity with a strong focus on customer service, attention to detail, and exceptional value.

      And we are growing throughout all parts of Canada and the United States and have capacity for new clients who want high quality research insights with enlightened hospitality.

      Our record speaks for itself: we were one of the most accurate pollsters conducting research during the 2021 Canadian election following up on our outstanding record in the 2019, 2015, and 2011 federal elections.

      Contact us with any questions.

      Find out more about how we can help your organization by downloading our corporate profile and service offering.

      Abacus Data Poll: As the Election Kicks Off, the Conservatives lead the Liberals by 3 as the NDP sinks further

      Our latest survey, completed between March 17 and 20 among 1,500 eligible voters, offers a detailed picture of the political landscape on the eve of the 2025 federal election call. The numbers reveal a competitive and fast-evolving race, one that combines the reassembly of old coalitions, erosion in others, and a level of voter interest that outstrips what we saw at this point in 2021.

      At first glance, the top-line results show the Conservatives holding a narrow lead nationally at 39%, with the Liberals close behind at 36%, and the NDP trailing at 12%. However, as is often the case, these toplines mask significant movement in the underlying trends.

      The Liberals have gained noticeable ground in key regions—especially Ontario and British Columbia—and now enjoy a large lead in Quebec and Atlantic Canada. Meanwhile, the NDP is hitting its lowest support level since Jagmeet Singh became leader, pointing to a significant loss of momentum at precisely the moment the campaign begins in earnest.

      Vote Intentions, Regions, and Demographics

      We see a number of regional and demographic patterns that are already reshaping the electoral map:

      • Ontario: The Conservatives and Liberals are essentially tied, although the gap has narrowed from previous polling. This suggests the Liberals have improved their position heading into the campaign, which is vital for either party’s path to victory.
      • British Columbia: The race is tightening. The Conservatives still hold a slight advantage, but the Liberals have gained ground, and the NDP is losing momentum. That sets up a dynamic three-way fight in many BC ridings.
      • Quebec: The Liberals hold a substantial lead over both the Bloc Québécois and the Conservatives. As in 2021, a strong Liberal performance in Quebec could give them a decisive edge in seat counts, even if they lag the Conservatives slightly in the national popular vote.
      • Atlantic Canada: The Liberals also enjoy a considerable lead here, continuing a long-standing pattern of Eastern Canada leaning red—at least when the party’s prospects are perceived as strong nationally.
      • Prairies: The Conservatives maintain a comfortable lead, reflecting their traditional base of support in Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba.

      Demographically, the Liberals enjoy stronger support among women than men, while the Conservatives perform particularly well among older voters (60+), a pattern that holds from past elections. The Liberals are competitive or leading among those under 45, but the NDP’s decline signals a younger electorate coalescing more around the Liberals at this early stage, with some younger voters also open to the Conservatives.

      Past Voters and Certainty to Vote

      An especially revealing insight comes from looking at how 2021 voters are aligning now. The Liberals are retaining a large proportion of their past supporters, and they’re drawing many who voted NDP last time. Conservative retention remains fairly high, but there are small cracks in their coalition compared to past election cycles. Most notably, the NDP is losing support to both the Liberals and the Conservatives—a sign that disaffected 2021 NDP voters are splitting in different directions.

      Among those most certain to vote, the gap narrows even further. The Conservatives sit at 38% among definite voters compared to 37% for the Liberals, bringing the race to a statistical tie. This signals that the usual Conservative advantage on turnout might not be as pronounced if Liberal partisans continue to show higher enthusiasm. Indeed, in this wave, we find that Liberal voters now report high levels of engagement—an important detail, since the turnout gap is often critical to shaping actual results.

      But we also see that Liberal and NDP supporters are more likely to say they could change their mind signally a potential softness in their vote. These voters are looking for a clear option which is why a further consolidation around the Liberals could happen, especially since a growing number of people believe they will win the next election.

      Growing Appetite for Change, But an Uncertain Path

      A telling statistic is that 57% of Canadians say they “definitely” want a change in government—higher than at the end of the 2021 campaign, and roughly on par with where Stephen Harper’s government stood just before losing in 2015. This number is a real concern for any incumbent party. However, it’s not at the level we would call an “absolute danger zone,” as some campaigns have recovered from roughly similar positions, including Doug Ford’s PCs who were recently re-elected in Ontario

      Still, among that 57% who definitely want change, the Conservatives capture 56% of the vote, while 15% say they would vote Liberal. That indicates a real opportunity for the Conservatives to reinforce the “time for a change” message—but also a vulnerability if issues such as Trump’s influence drive significant shifts in the campaign narrative and lead change voters to vote for the Liberals, despite wanting a change.

      Leadership Impressions and the Trump Factor

      One of the more interesting findings is the degree to which interest in this election is surging. Seventy-two percent now say they are “very interested” (8, 9, or 10 out of 10) in the coming vote—substantially higher than at the same point in 2021. That means leaders will be under more intense scrutiny, and impressions can shape campaign momentum.

      Mark Carney (Liberal): With a net impression of +12, Carney holds the most positive rating of the three main party leaders, although roughly one in three Canadians either have a neutral opinion or don’t know enough yet to say. He’s seen as “smart” (61%) and “a strong leader” (46%), outscoring the others on both measures. His biggest opportunity is to introduce himself more fully to Canadians, given he’s the least well-known sitting Prime Minister in living memory—a highly unusual position.

      Pierre Poilievre (Conservative): Poilievre’s net impression stands at -8, with a plurality describing him as “untrustworthy” (44%) and “fake” (42%). Still, many see him as capable on cost of living and housing, two issues that dominate voters’ minds. His task will be to retain focus on these pocketbook concerns and unify the “change” vote behind him.

      Jagmeet Singh (NDP): Singh’s net impression is at -13, his lowest in recent memory, mirroring the broader struggles of the NDP. Many still view him as friendly and compassionate, but fewer believe he’s a strong leader or best in tune with their values. As a result, his support appears more fluid, with votes drifting toward both the Liberals and Conservatives.

      Learn about the game-changing tool from the Abacus Data team that makes it possible to estimate polling results to the riding level to improve advocacy and government relations.

      Then there’s Donald Trump, currently President of the United States, looming large for many Canadians. A full 77% have a negative impression of him, and he ranks as a driving factor in this election for a significant share of the electorate. Among those who say Trump is the most important issue affecting their vote, the Liberals lead by almost 30 points—versus a 20-point Conservative lead among those who say cost of living is paramount. This reveals a stark fault line: voters outraged or alarmed by Trump lean heavily Liberal, while those who see inflation and affordability as top-of-mind lean Conservative.

      Carney vs. Poilievre: Who Would You Prefer?

      Though the Conservatives lead narrowly in overall vote intention, Mark Carney leads by four points (38% to 34%) when Canadians are asked which leader they’d like to see as Prime Minister. Regionally, Carney leads everywhere except the Prairies, and is tied with Poilievre in Ontario and BC—two critical battlegrounds. When asked to choose strictly between Carney and Poilievre, Canadians opt for Carney by a margin of 56% to 44%. In Quebec, that edge is even wider, with 77% of BQ voters preferring Carney over Poilievre, while 81% of NDP voters nationwide say the same.

      On specific policy files, Carney is clearly seen as stronger on matters like handling Ukraine, climate change, international affairs, and specifically dealing with Trump. Poilievre commands an advantage on cost of living and housing, two areas that poll as the top concerns driving voter decisions this election. Singh doesn’t lead on any issue, though some voters still see him as an advocate on social services and housing.

      The Upshot: A Close, Competitive Contest

      A Narrow Race: Despite the Conservatives’ lead in the top-line numbers, the Liberals have gained dramatically in key regions—enough to make Ontario, British Columbia, and Atlantic Canada effectively toss-ups and to give a seat advantage to the Liberals.

      Engaged Liberals: Among those most certain to vote, the race is now almost tied, suggesting the Liberals’ base is as energized as, if not more energized than, the Conservatives.

      NDP Slippage: The NDP is slipping to historic lows for Jagmeet Singh, with a significant share of that vote flowing to the Liberals—and some to the Conservatives. More than half of remaining NDP supporters say they could still change their minds, pointing to potential further declines if the campaign breaks against them.

      Where Does the Race Go From Here?: For Carney, the biggest challenge is that 57% of Canadians say they definitely want a change in government—but so far, that sentiment is not exclusively consolidating around the Conservatives. Carney’s strongest card appears to be the Trump factor, along with his net-favourable leadership advantage. The question is whether cost-of-living anxieties or anti-Trump sentiments win out.

      Conservative Path to Victory: Poilievre must rally those who want change, focus relentlessly on affordability and housing, and prevent the ballot question from drifting to Trump or foreign policy, where Carney has the edge. A sharper contrast on “time for a change” could still tip the balance in key ridings.

      Liberals’ Potential: If the narrative continues to highlight Trump’s unpopularity, the desire for stability, and Carney’s perceived strengths, the Liberals may further erode both NDP and Conservative support.

      Ultimately, it’s a razor-thin contest and one right now that seems to favour the Liberals. It’s Trump vs. change and a fight to set the ballot question. As Canadians gear up for a campaign that will launch within hours, the stakes are already high, voter engagement is much higher than at the start of the last election and the leadership dynamic is quite different than just a few months ago. A Prime Minister who remains less well-known than the Leader of the Opposition is a testament to just how unpredictable this election may be. Will Canadians focus on changing the government or protecting the country from Trump’s influence? We’re about to find out.

      Methodology

      The survey was conducted with 1,500 Canadians eligible to vote from March 17 to 20, 2025. A random sample of panelists were invited to complete the survey from a set of partner panels based on the Lucid exchange platform. These partners are typically double opt-in survey panels, blended to manage out potential skews in the data from a single source.

      The margin of error for a comparable probability-based random sample of the same size is +/- 2.5%, 19 times out of 20.

      The data were weighted according to census data to ensure that the sample matched Canada’s population according to age, gender, educational attainment, and region. Totals may not add up to 100 due to rounding.

      This survey was paid for by Abacus Data Inc.

      Abacus Data follows the CRIC Public Opinion Research Standards and Disclosure Requirements that can be found here:  https://canadianresearchinsightscouncil.ca/standards/

      ABOUT ABACUS DATA

      We are Canada’s most sought-after, influential, and impactful polling and market research firm. We are hired by many of North America’s most respected and influential brands and organizations.

      We use the latest technology, sound science, and deep experience to generate top-flight research-based advice to our clients. We offer global research capacity with a strong focus on customer service, attention to detail, and exceptional value.

      And we are growing throughout all parts of Canada and the United States and have capacity for new clients who want high quality research insights with enlightened hospitality.

      Our record speaks for itself: we were one of the most accurate pollsters conducting research during the 2021 Canadian election following up on our outstanding record in the 2019, 2015, and 2011 federal elections.

      Contact us with any questions.

      Find out more about how we can help your organization by downloading our corporate profile and service offering.

      Donald Trump has changed the election game plan for Mark Carney and Pierre Poilievre. Here's how

      Latest Abacus Data polling shows 57% of Canadian voters want a change. But the ballot question may be in transition as voters look for a leader … Source: https://www.google.com/url?rct=j&sa=t&url=https://www.thestar.com/politics/federal/donald-trump-has-changed-the-election-game-plan-for-mark-carney-and-pierre-poilievre-here/article_2509d69c-6ecf-4d63-b47a-06789c818623.html&ct=ga&cd=CAIyGjc1Y2Q2YWMwOGE3YWEyZTk6Y29tOmVuOlVT&usg=AOvVaw12xCuszrwrRfguIISpo-Uj