Poll Reveals 49% of Canadians Support Cutting Governor General’s Budget

A recent Leger poll indicates that nearly half of Canadians, specifically49%, are in favor of reducing the budget allocated to the Governor General’s office. The Canadian Taxpayers Federation (CTF) is urging Prime Minister Mark Carney to implement these cuts following the findings of this polling data.

The CTF’s Quebec director, Nicolas Gagnon, stated that “when families are struggling with rising prices, it’s wrong to rubberstamp budget increases for a completely ceremonial office.” This sentiment reflects growing public concern regarding government spending, particularly in light of current economic challenges.

According to the Governor General’s latest annual report, the office’s expenses reached $36 million for the fiscal year 2023-24. The Governor General is compensated with a salary of $378,000, alongside a taxpayer-funded clothing allowance, a lifetime pension estimated at $150,000 annually, and a substantial $200,000 expense account available after leaving office.

The Leger poll, conducted from July 25 to 27, 2023, surveyed 1,533 Canadians aged 18 and older. It revealed that while 19% of respondents wish to maintain the current budget and 13% support an increase, approximately 60% of those with an opinion favor a budget cut. The margin of error for this survey is no greater than ±2.5%, with a confidence level of 95%.

In Gagnon’s view, the Governor General’s compensation and benefits are excessive. He remarked, “The governor general already receives a massive salary, lives in a taxpayer-funded mansion, flies on private jets and still gets a six-figure annual expense account after retirement.” He emphasized that Canadians are sending a clear message to the Prime Minister: “enough is enough.”

The findings of this poll and the CTF’s advocacy highlight a growing public sentiment regarding government expenditures. As discussions surrounding budget allocations continue, it remains to be seen how the government will respond to the expressed concerns of its citizens.