60% of Canadians Say Trust in Americans Forever Changed

UPDATE: A striking new poll reveals that 60% of Canadians believe they can never trust Americans the same way again, as tensions escalate following U.S. tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump. Conducted by Ipsos between September 9-12, 2025, this urgent survey underscores a significant shift in sentiment among Canadians regarding their southern neighbor.

The data shows that 71% of Canadians anticipate ongoing disputes with the U.S., indicating a long-term impact on bilateral relations. Ipsos Public Affairs CEO Darrell Bricker stated, “Canadians feel that their relationship with the United States has changed in a fundamental way.” This sentiment reflects a growing desire for Canada to assert its sovereignty amidst trade uncertainties.

The poll also reveals that only 51% of Canadians approve of Prime Minister Mark Carney‘s handling of U.S. relations. This is a stark contrast to the 60% who expressed confidence in their political leaders to manage relations with Trump just a few months ago. With only 42% believing Carney will successfully negotiate a new trade deal, skepticism looms large.

As the “Buy Canadian” movement gains momentum, Bricker warns American brands may face challenges in the Canadian market. “If you’re an American brand in Canada these days, you’re going to have an interesting relationship with consumers,” he noted. The sentiment for locally produced goods remains strong, with 75% of Canadians willing to pay more for premium or local products.

Additionally, Canadians are increasingly hesitant to travel to the U.S., with around 75% indicating they plan to avoid trips south of the border. This shift is corroborated by data from Statistics Canada, showing a decline in travel between the two nations.

The poll highlights a growing sense of Canadian national pride, with 47% reporting they feel prouder to be Canadian than five years ago, a significant increase of 31 points from the previous year. Most Canadians recognize that issues extend beyond Trump, with only 30% believing that his departure would resolve Canada’s problems.

This Ipsos poll, part of the “Trump, Tariffs, and Turmoil” study, involved 2,001 Canadians aged 18 and over, ensuring a representative sample of the adult population. The poll’s accuracy is within ± 2.7% percentage points, 19 times out of 20, reflecting a critical moment in Canada-U.S. relations.

As Canadians grapple with these developments, the implications for trade, travel, and national identity continue to unfold. What remains to be seen is how these sentiments will shape future policy and public opinion in the face of ongoing challenges.