OTTAWA – A recent survey by the Angus Reid Institute reveals that while Prime Minister Mark Carney’s government is celebrated for its international diplomacy, it is facing significant domestic pressure over the rising cost of living. One year into his tenure, 52% of Canadians believe that affordability should be the government’s top priority. However, the report highlights a major disconnect, with 70% of respondents stating the administration has failed to meet expectations regarding the cost of living, and 67% expressing similar dissatisfaction with efforts to improve housing affordability.
On the world stage, the narrative is much more positive for the Carney administration. The survey found that 64% of Canadians believe the government has successfully improved the country’s international reputation, while 56% approve of the Prime Minister’s handling of the complex relationship with U.S. President Donald Trump. Additionally, the government received high marks for meeting NATO defense spending targets, contributing to Carney’s personal approval rating of 58%, which is notably higher than several previous prime ministers at the same one-year milestone.
Despite these international wins, the country remains divided on its overall trajectory. While 41% of participants feel the government has fulfilled its election promises, an equal 41% disagree. The sense of national direction is similarly split, with 34% believing Canada is on the right track compared to 42% who feel it is headed in the wrong direction. As the government transitions into its second year, the data suggests that maintaining its current majority will depend on shifting focus from global prestige to tangible economic relief for Canadian households.
