A new poll suggests Canadians remain broadly supportive of Mark Carney and his Liberal Party of Canada government after one year in office, even as many voters say the country is moving in the wrong direction and affordability pressures continue to grow.
According to new data from the Angus Reid Institute, 58 per cent of respondents approve of Carney’s performance as prime minister. That approval level remains stronger than the one-year ratings recorded by former prime ministers Stephen Harper, Paul Martin and Brian Mulroney.
If a federal election were held today, the poll indicates the Liberals would remain ahead nationally, with 42 per cent support compared with 35 per cent for the Conservative Party of Canada.
Despite those numbers, concerns about the country’s direction remain significant. Forty-two per cent of Canadians said the country is on the wrong track, while 34 per cent believe it is headed in the right direction. The findings suggest many voters are uneasy about current conditions but are not directly blaming Carney for all of the challenges facing Canada.
The government’s strongest marks came on international issues. Sixty-four per cent said the Liberals have met or exceeded expectations in improving Canada’s global reputation, while 57 per cent approved of efforts to diversify trade beyond the United States amid tensions with Donald Trump and ongoing tariff disputes.
However, domestic affordability remains the government’s weakest area. Seventy per cent of respondents said Ottawa is falling short on the rising cost of living, while 67 per cent said progress on housing affordability has not met expectations.
Canadians also appear divided on whether the government has delivered on its broader promises. Forty-one per cent said Carney has met expectations, while an equal 41 per cent said he has not.
Looking ahead, the poll found the top priority for the next year is reducing the cost of living, chosen by 52 per cent of respondents. Managing Canada’s relationship with the United States was the next biggest concern at 31 per cent.
The results paint a clear picture: Canadians still trust Carney’s leadership, especially on the world stage, but they want faster progress on everyday issues like housing, groceries and household bills.