Mark Carney’s Approval Hits 70% as Canada Pushes Back Against Trump

Canada’s Prime Minister Mark Carney is receiving exceptionally strong public support as tensions with the United States continue to shape Canadian politics.

A September 2026 Spark Insights survey found that 70% of Canadians approved of the way the federal government led by Carney was handling its responsibilities—the highest level recorded in that survey. The result came as Canada-U.S. tensions intensified over tariffs and trade negotiations.

Carney has taken a more assertive approach toward Washington, arguing that Canada should strengthen its economic independence while maintaining a respectful relationship with the United States. His government has also been pursuing closer economic and strategic ties with Europe and other international partners.

Other polling shows that support remains strong, although estimates vary by pollster. Angus Reid reported 62% approval in early September, while Abacus Data recorded 59% approval later in the month.

The contrast with U.S. President Donald Trump is also notable. A recent Financial Times/Focaldata poll put Trump’s approval among U.S. registered voters at 33%, meaning the gap with the 70% Spark figure is substantial. However, the surveys were conducted in different countries and under different methodologies, so the numbers should not be treated as a direct head-to-head comparison.

Carney’s rising support reflects, among other factors, Canadians’ views of his handling of the relationship with the United States. Abacus found that 57% approved of the government’s handling of Canada-U.S. relations, its strongest-rated policy area in that survey.

As the trade dispute continues, Carney is betting on diversification, stronger domestic investment and deeper relationships with Europe and other markets.

The political question now is whether this unusually high public support will last as Canadians begin to feel the economic consequences of the trade conflict.

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