Canadians Skeptical as Trump-Carney Talks Yield No Progress

Amid ongoing tensions, negotiations have failed to meet an August deadline set by Trump. Key sectors, including steel, aluminum, and agriculture, remain contentious as both governments struggle to address significant disagreements.

Despite the warm public statements from both leaders, Canadians are largely unconvinced that tangible progress is being made. The poll indicates that skepticism towards Trump is the primary driver behind this declining confidence. An overwhelming 58% of respondents cited Trump’s unpredictability as a major factor in their pessimism, a sentiment echoed by 95% of Liberal Party supporters. Even among Conservative voters, 37% expressed concerns about Trump’s behavior affecting the negotiations.

Trump’s approval ratings in Canada remain alarmingly low, with only 13% of Canadians viewing his administration positively, while a significant 71% hold a negative opinion. His most favorable ratings are in Saskatchewan at 29%, but only 9% in Atlantic Canada view him favorably.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Carney’s approval rating has stabilized at 50% for the second consecutive month. Finance Minister Dominic Leblanc remains optimistic, asserting that Ottawa believes an agreement can still be reached and that both sides will “quickly” find common ground on vital export issues.

However, the latest poll results suggest that Canadians are wary of political assurances. The optimism emanating from Washington has not translated into confidence at home, as many perceive the cordiality between Carney and Trump as merely a pause in what continues to be a tense trade dispute.

As the situation develops, all eyes will be on upcoming negotiations and whether leaders can bridge the growing gap in public trust and deliver a deal that satisfies both nations.