Lifestyle – Page 4 – Research Co.

Canadians Back Retaliation as Trump’s “Liberation Day” Nears

April 1, 2025February 14, 2026By Mario Canseco

The “Buy Canadian” movement shows no signs of slowing down, as support for enhanced trade with other nations remains high.

Vancouver, BC [April 1, 2025] – More than two thirds of Canadians are ready for targeted action to counter the American president’s overtures on tariffs and sovereignty, a new Research Co. poll has found.

In the online survey of a representative national sample, 72% of Canadians support Canada’s prime minister and provincial premiers suspending all steel, aluminum, and wood exports to the United States until U.S. President Donald Trump completely removes the threat of tariffs.

Seven-in-ten Canadians (70%) support Canada’s prime minister and provincial premiers shutting off all energy exports to the United States until Trump completely removes the threat of tariffs, while just over two thirds (68%) endorse Canada officially demanding an apology from Trump for his statements related to Canada becoming an American state.

Just under three-in-five Canadians (58%) support Canada’s Minister of Foreign Affairs recalling the Canadian ambassador to the U.S. in response to Trump’s statements.

In the middle of a federal election campaign, more than four-in-five Canadians (84%) have followed news related to the tariffs “very closely” or “moderately closely”, down three points since a similar Research Co. poll conducted in early February.

Practically three-in-five Canadians (59%) approve of the way Prime Minister Mark Carney has dealt with the tariffs. The rating did not move for Official Opposition leader Pierre Poilievre (47%, =).

“Two thirds of Canadians aged 55 and over (66%) are content with the way Prime Minister Mark Carney has managed the dispute over tariffs,” says Mario Canseco, President of Research Co. “The approval rating for Official Opposition leader Pierre Poilievre among this group is decidedly lower (35%).”

More than half of Canadians (56%, -5) are satisfied with the performance of their premier during the tariffs dispute, while more than a third (37%) feel the same way about their province’s official opposition leader.

The approval rating fell significantly for the premiers of British Columbia (53%, -14) and Alberta (42%, -12) and remained mostly stable in Ontario (59%, -5) and Quebec (56%, -2).

This month, Quebec has the highest ranked opposition leader on the tariffs dispute (43%, -1) followed by Alberta (39%, -5), Ontario (37%, -10) and British Columbia (34%, -3).

Canadians are evenly divided when asked to ponder what the future will bring, with 36% (-5) expecting the U.S. government to rescind the tariffs and the same proportion (36%, +2) predicting their expansion.

There is also a split on which type of federal government would be better positioned at this point to deal with the tariffs implemented by the United States. More than two-in-five Canadians (44%, -5) think a Conservative government would do better, while 42% (+4) disagree.

As was the case in early February, more than three-in-five Canadians (64%, +1) are avoiding the purchase of goods originated from the United States, if a non-American alternative is available. More than a third say they are avoiding American restaurant franchises in Canada (41%, =), cancelled a planned trip to the United States (37%, +11) and avoiding American entertainment options (35%, +4).

The proportion of Canadians who are not partaking in any of these four actions stands at 20% (-4). This group encompasses one-in-four Conservative Party voters in the last federal election (25%) and only one-in-ten Canadians who voted for either the Liberal Party (10%) or the New Democratic Party (NDP) (also 10%) in 2021.

Canadians appear to be having a difficult time figuring out which restaurant franchises are domestic. More than two-in-five correctly identified five of 10 brands tested as Canadian: Harvey’s (52%), Pizza Pizza (50%), Swiss Chalet (49%), Boston Pizza (46%) and Cora (45%). The proportions of correct responses are lower for Mary Browns (37%), Freshii (34%), New York Fries (23%), Panago (23%) and Ricky’s All Day Grill (21%).

At least three-in-four Canadians think Canada should seriously consider enhancing trade with Australia and New Zealand (81%, +3), the European Union (EU) (79%, +2), Mexico (78%, +3) and Japan (75%, =).

Support for requesting an independent dispute settlement panel under the terms of the Canada–United States–Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) stands at 59% (-5).

Just over one-in-five Canadians (21%, -1) would seriously consider initiating a formal process for Canada to become an American state. On a regional basis, support for this notion is highest in Quebec (24%), followed by Ontario (22%), Alberta (21%), Saskatchewan and Manitoba (18%), British Columbia (17%) and Atlantic Canada (17%).

Just over half of Canadians (52%) would seriously consider initiating a formal process for Canada to join the EU, while 35% disagree and 13% are undecided.

Majorities of Liberal and NDP voters in 2021 (61% and 55% respectively) favour taking a look at Canada’s possible membership in the EU. Support is lower among Conservative voters (45%).

Methodology: Results are based on an online survey conducted on March 23 and March 24, 2025, among 1,003 adults in Canada. The data has been statistically weighted according to census figures for age, gender and region in Canada. The margin of error—which measures sample variability—is +/- 3.1 percentage points, nineteen times out of twenty.

Find our data tables here and download the press release here.

British Columbians Oblivious of Looming Food Security Challenges

March 27, 2025March 27, 2025By Mario Canseco

More than three-in-five residents say they do not mind paying more for locally sourced fruits and vegetables.

Vancouver, BC [March 27, 2025] – Most British Columbians are not aware of how much Canada’s food supply relies on produce from the United States, a new Research Co. poll has found.

In the online survey of a representative provincial sample, only 36% of British Columbians correctly identify the proportion of fruits that come from the United States (36%, or somewhere between 21% and 40%).

Only about one-in-six of the province’s residents (16%) know that Canada imports somewhere between 61% to 80% of its vegetables (67%) from the United States.

When British Columbians are informed of the actual proportion of American imports, only 36% say they are “very confident” or “moderately confident” that Canada’s food supply and security will not be restricted by the current dispute over tariffs with the United States.

Most respondents (54%) are “very confident” or “moderately confident” that British Columbia’s food producers will be able to increase production if the food supply is ultimately restricted.

More than seven-in-ten British Columbians say they have seen prices increase for fruits (78%), vegetables (75%), beef (73%) and chicken (71%) over the past six months, while majorities feel the same way about cereal (61%), bread (60%) and prepared frozen meals (also 60%).

When asked who is most responsible for items becoming more expensive, almost three-in-ten British Columbians (39%) point the finger at the actions of governments, while one-in-four (25%) blame global political conflicts affecting supplies.

Fewer British Columbias think the actions of supermarket retailers and grocery stores (18%), climate change (11%), the actions of product manufacturers and suppliers (9%), labour and supply setbacks (6%) or the actions of farmers and growers (3%) are primarily responsible for rising prices.

“British Columbians aged 55 and over are more likely to blame global strife for rising food costs (30%),” says Mario Canseco, President of Research Co. “About a third of those aged 35-to-54 (33%) and aged 18-to-34 (32%) think governments are mostly responsible.”

If Canada had to look for non-American sources for food supply and security, just over a third of British Columbians (34%) would be willing to pay “less than 10% more” than now, while more than one-in-five (22%) are willing to pay “from 11% to 20% more.”

Fewer than one-in-five British Columbians (18%) would not be willing to pay more for non-American food sources—a proportion that rises to 22% among British Columbians aged 35-to-54 and 24% among Conservative Party of BC voters in last year’s provincial election.

More than three-in-five British Columbians (62%) say they do not mind paying more for fruits and vegetables if they originate in British Columbia, while just under three-in-four (74%) agree with making adjustments to the Agricultural Land Reserve (ALR) to allow for food processing on underused ALR parcels.

Sizeable majorities of British Columbians believe both the federal government (78%) and the provincial government (73%) can do a lot to help lower the price of groceries.

Methodology: Results are based on an online survey conducted from March 15 to March 17, 2025, among 801 adults in British Columbia. The data has been statistically weighted according to census figures for age, gender and region in British Columbia. The margin of error—which measures sample variability—is +/- 3.5 percentage points, nineteen times out of twenty.

Find our data tables here and download the press release here.

Perceptions of Constitutional Monarchy Improve Across Canada

March 21, 2025March 19, 2025By Mario Canseco

Catherine, Princess of Wales, has the highest favourability rating among six different members of the Royal Family.

Vancouver, BC [March 21, 2025] – Public views on Canada’s existence as a constitutional monarchy and federal state have improved over the past year, a new Research Co. poll has found.

In the online survey of a representative national sample, 31% of Canadians would prefer for Canada to remain a monarchy, up eight points since a similar Research Co. survey conducted in March 2024.

Two-in-five Canadians (40%, -6) would like for Canada to have an elected head of state, while 18% (-3) do not care either way and 11% (+1) are undecided.

“Support for Canada remaining a monarchy has returned to the level observed after the death of Queen Elizabeth II in September 2022,” says Mario Canseco, President of Research Co. “The gap between republicanists and monarchists has shrunk from 23 points in 2024 to nine points in 2025.”

Public backing for Canada remaining a monarchy is highest among Canadians aged 55 and over (36%) than with their counterparts aged 18-to-34 (31%) and aged 35-to-54 (25%).

On a regional basis, Quebec has the lowest proportion of residents who endorse the continuation of the monarchy (24%). The proportions are higher in Alberta (31%), British Columbia (32%), Atlantic Canada (34%), Ontario (also 34%) and Saskatchewan and Manitoba (35%).

More than half of Canadians (53%, +1) believe Canada will “definitely” or “probably” remain a monarchy two decades from now, while just under a third (32%, -1) think the country will “definitely” or “probably” have an elected head of state.

Majorities of Canadians who voted for the Liberal Party (61%), the New Democratic Party (NDP) (59%) or the Conservative Party (56%) in the 2021 federal election expect the country to retain its status as a constitutional monarchy in 2045.

This month, Princess Kate holds the highest favourability rating among six Royal Family members in Canada (58%, +4). The numbers are lower for Prince William (54%, =), Prince Harry (47%, -1), Duchess Meghan (40%, -2), King Charles III (also 40%, +2) and Queen Consort Camilla (30%, +5).

Favourable opinions of King Charles III are highest among Canadians aged 55 and over (50%), Liberal voters in the 2021 federal election (also 50%) and British Columbians (46%),

More than three-in-five Canadians who want the monarchy to continue (62%) hold favourable views on King Charles III. Only 32% of Canadians who want to have an elected head of state feel the same way.

The perceptions of Canadians on specific issues related to the current monarch have shifted over the past 12 months. Just over half (51%, -17) want King Charles III to commit to reduce the carbon footprint of the entire Royal Family, and more than two-in-five (44%, -16) believe he should advance the cause of reconciliation with Indigenous peoples.

Two-in-five Canadians (40%, -10) say they would have liked to see Prince William become King of the United Kingdom and the other 14 Commonwealth realms, including Canada—a proportion that rises to 49% in Alberta.

Canadians are divided on the presence of King Charles III on coins and bills that will be used in the country, While 44% of respondents (-8) say they have no problem with this scenario, 41% (+4) disagree.

Methodology: Results are based on an online survey conducted from March 10 to March 12, 2025, among 1,001 adults in Canada. The data has been statistically weighted according to census figures for age, gender and region in Canada. The margin of error—which measures sample variability—is +/- 3.1 percentage points, nineteen times out of twenty.

Find our data tables here and download the press release here.

Most British Columbians Dismayed by Pro-Palestinian Protests

March 20, 2025March 19, 2025By Mario Canseco

Concerns about antisemitism remain high, as the public calls for the strict vetting of immigration applications from Gaza residents.

Vancouver, BC [March 20, 2025] – The post-October 7, 2023, conflict in Israel and Gaza is making British Columbians uneasy about issues related to public protests and immigration, a new Research Co. poll has found.

The online survey of a representative provincial sample shows that most British Columbians are dissatisfied with the actions of Pro-Palestinian protestors, which have included the burning of Canadian flags and chants in support of groups identified by the Government of Canada as terrorist entities.

More than seven-in-ten British Columbians (72%) say these rallies go against Canadian values and should not be allowed, while just over two thirds (68%) think these actions are clearly illegal and those involved should be arrested.

British Columbians are divided on whether police and governments are doing enough to combat antisemitism (Agree 43%, Disagree 42%).

“More than half of BC Green Party voters in 2024 (51%) think police and governments are managing antisemitism properly,” says Mario Canseco, President of Research Co. “Fewer British Columbians who voted for the BC New Democratic Party (NDP) (47%) or the Conservative Party of BC (45%) feel the same way.”

More than four-in-five British Columbians (82%) say that, based on the public handover ceremonies that have taken place in Gaza, the treatment of hostages is inhumane and makes them doubt there is a path to peace. More than half (53%) suggest that creating a state in Gaza will simply result in a new terrorist state being created.

More than seven-in-ten British Columbians (72%) want the federal government to have strict controls to ensure no Hamas members or supporters are allowed to come to Canada, and just over two thirds (68%) want immigration from Gaza to cease immediately, including in-process visas.

Only 37% of British Columbians believe the vetting of immigrants from Muslim nations is currently adequate, while majorities say that too many immigrants from Muslim nations are participants in the angry protests targeting Jewish Canadians and calling for the extermination of Israel (60%) and do not share or practice Canadian values (69%).

Four-in-five British Columbians (80%, +1 since a similar Research Co. poll conducted in June 2024) are “very concerned” or “moderately concerned” about attacks, including gunfire and firebombs, on synagogues, Jewish schools and businesses.

More than three-in-four British Columbians are concerned about three other issues: aggressive behaviour by Pro-Palestinian protestors (78%, +4), protestors targeting Jewish neighbourhoods and Jewish-owned businesses (77%, +1) and rising prejudice against Jewish Canadians (antisemitism) (76%, +1).

Two thirds of British Columbians (67%, +1) believe that Canadian Jews are being unfairly targeted for what is happening in Israel and Gaza.

Methodology: Results are based on an online survey conducted from March 10 to March 12, 2025, among 812 adults in British Columbia. The data has been statistically weighted according to Canadian census figures for age, gender and region in British Columbia. The margin of error—which measures sample variability—is +/- 3.5 percentage points, nineteen times out of twenty.

Find our data tables here and download the press release here.

Perceptions on Canada’s Drivers Take a Turn for the Worse

March 7, 2025March 10, 2025By Mario Canseco

More than half of Canadians saw a driver not stopping at an intersection in the past month.

Vancouver, BC [March 7, 2025] – The proportion of Canadians who appear dismayed at the prowess of local drivers has increased markedly, a new Research Co. poll has found.

In the online survey of a representative national sample, 56% of Canadians say drivers in their city or town are worse now than five years ago, up 10 points since a similar Research Co. poll conducted in September 2023.

“Just over two thirds of Canadians aged 55 and over (68%) think drivers in their city or town are not as good as before,” says Mario Canseco, President of Research Co. “Fewer Canadians aged 35-to-54 (59%) and aged 18-to-34 (41%) feel the same way.”

On a regional basis, Atlantic Canada has the highest proportion of residents who believe drivers are worse now than five years ago (63%). The numbers are lower in Alberta (59%), Ontario (also 59%), British Columbia (57%), Saskatchewan and Manitoba (56%) and Quebec (47%).

The survey also tracks the incidence of six specific occurrences on the country’s roads over the past month.

More than three-in-five Canadians (64%, +5) recall a driver not signalling before a turn, a proportion that rises to 75% in Atlantic Canada.

More than half of Canadians (53%, +8) witnessed a driver not stopping before and intersection, including 61% of residents of Saskatchewan and Manitoba.

Half of Canadians (50%, =) saw a car taking up two or more spaces at a parking lot. The proportion is decidedly higher in Alberta (63%).

Just over two-in-five Canadians (42%, +7) saw a car “lane tracking”, or turning right or left from an incorrect lane—including 45% of British Columbians.

Fewer Canadians (40%, +6) recall going through a close call, such as having to slam the brakes or steer violently to avoid a collision in the past month.

More than three-in-five Canadians (62%, +3) claim that there are specific groups or people in their city or town who are worse drivers than others—a proportion that rises to 68% in Alberta and to 67% among those aged 18-to-34.

Among the respondents who volunteered an answer in an open-ended follow-up question about worse drivers, one third (33%, =) mention “young”. Fewer of these respondents relied on terms such as “immigrant” (22%, +10), “elderly” (16%, -5), “Asian” (14%, -2) and “distracted” (4%, +2).

Methodology: Results are based on an online survey conducted from February 16 to February 18, 2025, among 1,002 adults in Canada. The data has been statistically weighted according to census figures for age, gender and region in Canada. The margin of error—which measures sample variability—is +/- 3.1 percentage points, nineteen times out of twenty.

Find our data tables here and download the press release here.

Practically Half of Canadians Foresee a Worsening Economy

February 12, 2025February 13, 2025By Mario Canseco

Concerns about the financial viability of employers increased from 33% in August 2024 to 48% this month.

Vancouver, BC [February 12, 2025] – Only a third of Canadians continue to provide a positive review of the country’s financial standing, a new Research Co. poll has found.

In the online survey of a representative national sample, 32% of Canadians (unchanged since a similar Research Co. survey conducted in August 2024) rate the economic conditions in Canada as “very good” or “good”, while 64% (=) consider them as “poor” or “very poor”.

Almost half of Canadians (48%, +14) think the Canadian economy will decline in the next six months, while 31% (-12) predict no changes and only 15% (=) expect a recovery.

“Canadians aged 55 and over are particularly pessimistic about the national economy,” says Mario Canseco, President of Research Co. “Two thirds of Canada’s oldest adults (66%) expect a decline, compared to 48% of those aged 35-to-54 and 31% of those aged 18-to-34.”

More than half of Canadians (52%, +6) describe their own personal finances as “very good” or “good” right now—a proportion that rises to 58% among those aged 55 and over, 54% in Quebec and 53% in Ontario.

Practically half of Canadians (48%, +15) have worried “frequently” or “occasionally” in the past couple of months about their employer running into serious financial trouble.

Similar proportions of Canadians have also experienced concerns about being able to pay mortgage or rent (47%, +5), the value of their investments (47%, -5), unemployment affecting their household (45%, +3) and the safety of their savings (43%, -8).

Practically four-in-five Canadians expect higher prices for a week’s worth of groceries (78%, +2) and gasoline (78%, +1) in the next six months. Majorities also believe they will have to pay more for a new car (71%, +3), a new television set (61%, +8) and real estate (57%, -8).

More than two-in-five Canadians (45%, +4) trust federal leader of the opposition Pierre Poilievre to do the right thing to help the economy. The numbers are lower for both Prime Minister Justin Trudeau (39%, +3) and Governor of the Bank of Canada Tiff Macklem (also 39%, +4).

Poilievre’s rating as an economic manager is highest in Saskatchewan and Manitoba (50%), followed by Alberta (49%), Atlantic Canada (48%), Ontario (47%), Quebec (40%) and British Columbia (also 40%).

Trudeau’s numbers are better in Quebec (44%) and Ontario (43%), but drop in British Columbia (38%), Saskatchewan and Manitoba (35%), Atlantic Canada (33%) and Alberta (30%).

Methodology: Results are based on an online survey conducted from February 3 to February 5, 2025, among 1,001 adults in Canada. The data has been statistically weighted according to census figures for age, gender and region in Canada. The margin of error—which measures sample variability—is +/- 3.1 percentage points, nineteen times out of twenty.

Find our data tables here and download the press release here.

Litterers, Careless Pet Owners Cause Anger in Canada and the U.S.

February 6, 2025February 6, 2025By Mario Canseco

Americans are decidedly more upset over issues related to bicycles, while Canadians are more irritated by smokers.

Vancouver, BC [February 6, 2025] – While most Canadians and Americans believe the residents of their municipalities and cities follow existing laws and by-laws, specific actions are bound to infuriate them, a new two-country Research Co. poll has found.

In the online survey of representative national samples, more than seven-in-ten Canadians say five behaviours make them “very upset” or “moderately upset”: not picking up dog waste (84%), using a hand-held cell phone when driving (81%), littering (79%), throwing cigarette butts on the ground (78%), parking in a handicapped spot without a decal (74%) and speeding on a municipal road or street (71%).

About two thirds of Canadians are irritated when they see people not wearing a seatbelt when driving a car or riding in a car (69%) or when they see an individual smoking in a patio, or near doorways, open windows, or air intakes (65%).

Fewer than two in five Canadians become upset by five other behaviours: people riding bicycles without a helmet (39%), riding bicycles on the sidewalk (37%), watering the lawn outside permitted hours (37%), downloading or streaming copyrighted material for free (33%) and jaywalking (31%).

In the United States, more than seven in ten Americans become irritated when they witness four behaviours: littering (79%), not picking up dog waste (77%), parking in a handicapped spot without a decal (73%) and using a hand-held cell phone when driving (71%).

Majorities of Americans also become upset when they see a driver speeding on a municipal road or street (66%), a person throwing cigarette butts on the ground (65%) or someone not wearing a seatbelt when driving a car or riding in a car (57%).

Fewer than half of Americans are irritated after witnessing people smoking in a patio, or near doorways, open windows, or air intakes (48%), riding bicycles without a helmet (29%), riding bicycles on the sidewalk (27%), watering the lawn outside permitted hours (25%), downloading or streaming copyrighted material for free (34%) and jaywalking (27%).

“Americans are not as upset as Canadians when witnessing smokers lighting up too close to non-smokers or discarding their cigarettes anywhere they please,” says Mario Canseco, President of Research Co. “Conversely, Canadians are significantly angrier than Americans when cyclists ride without proper head protection.”

More than seven-in-ten Canadians (73%) and Americans (76%) believe most of their city’s residents law-abiding.

More than four-in-five British Columbians (83%) say most residents of their municipality follow the law. The proportions are lower in Saskatchewan and Manitoba (76%), Ontario (75%), Atlantic Canada (also 75%), Alberta (67%) and Quebec (65%).

In the United States, almost four-in-five residents of the West (79%) think most residents of their city are law-abiding. The proportions drop the Midwest (75%), the South (73%) and the Northeast (71%).

Methodology: Results are based on an online study conducted from January 22 to January 24, 2025, among 1,000 adults in Canada and 1,001 adults in the United States. The data has been statistically weighted according to census figures for age, gender and region in each country. The margin of error—which measures sample variability—is +/- 3.1 percentage points, nineteen times out of twenty, in each country.

Find our data tables for Canada here, data tables for the United States here and download the press release here.

Canadians Ready to Boycott American Brands Over Trump Tariffs

February 3, 2025February 3, 2025By Mario Canseco

At least three-in-four want Canada to enhance trade with other partners around the world.

Vancouver, BC [February 3, 2025] – Many Canadians are willing to modify their consumer habits after U.S. President Donald Trump announced the implementation of a 25% tariff on Imports from Canada (and 10% on Canadian Energy), a new Research Co. poll has found.

In the online survey of a representative national sample, more than three-in-five Canadians (63%) say they will avoid purchasing goods originated from the United States, if a non-American alternative is available.

Just over two-in-five Canadians (41%) plan to avoid American restaurant franchises in Canada, while 31% would avoid American entertainment options and 26% intend to cancel a planned trip to the United States.

More than four-in-five Canadians (87%) have followed news related to the tariffs “very closely” or “moderately closely”.

More than half of Canadians (54%) approve of the performance of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to deal with the tariffs implemented by the United States, while 47% feel the same way about Official Opposition leader Pierre Poilievre.

Just over three-in-five Canadians (61%) are satisfied with the way their provincial premier has managed the issue of tariffs, while 43% are content with the performance of their provincial opposition leader on this file.

In Canada’s four most populous provinces, the actions of the premier find a higher rating in British Columbia (67%), followed by Ontario (64%), Quebec (58%) and Alberta (54%). Among provincial opposition leaders, the results are best in Ontario (47%), followed by Alberta (44%), Quebec (also 44%) and British Columbia (37%).

Practically half of Canadians (49%) believe a Conservative federal government would be better positioned at this point to deal with the tariffs implemented by the United States—a proportion that rises to 61% among those aged 18-to-34 and to 51% among those aged 35-to-54.

Residents of Alberta (59%) and Saskatchewan and Manitoba (55%) are more likely to say that the Conservatives would be better at managing the trade dispute than their counterparts in Ontario (50%), Atlantic Canada (48%), Quebec (46%) and British Columbia (42%).

Canadians are divided over what will transpire in the next six months, with 41% expecting the recently implemented tariffs on Canadian products to be rescinded by the American government, and 34% foreseeing their expansion.

When asked about specific options for Canada, at least three-in-four Canadians are in favour of enhancing trade with Australia and New Zealand (78%), the European Union (EU) (77%), Japan (75%) and Mexico (also 75%).

Almost two thirds of Canadians (64%) would consider requesting an independent dispute settlement panel under the terms of the Canada–United States–Mexico Agreement (CUSMA). This idea is backed by majorities of Canadians who voted for the Liberal Party (74%), the New Democratic Party (NDP) (67%) and the Conservative Party (62%) in the 2021 federal election.

Only 22% of Canadians would consider initiating a formal process for Canada to become an American state, while 71% reject this notion.

“More than a third of Canadians aged 18-to-34 (35%) are open to discussing the eventual addition of Canada into the United States,” says Mario Canseco, President of Research Co. “The proportions are lower among those aged 35-to-54 (25%) and those aged 55 and over (8%).”

Methodology: Results are based on an online survey conducted on February 2, 2025, among 1,002 adults in Canada. The data has been statistically weighted according to census figures for age, gender and region in Canada. The margin of error—which measures sample variability—is +/- 3.1 percentage points, nineteen times out of twenty, in each country.

Find our data tables here and download the press release here.

Young Canadians Are Ready for Biometrics Payments

January 29, 2025January 28, 2025By Mario Canseco

While 57% of Canadians aged 18-to-34 would welcome this option, only 30% of those aged 55 and over concur.

Vancouver, BC [January 29, 2025] – The way Canadians pay for things has not changed much over the past year and a half, and the country’s youngest adults remain supportive of the use of biometrics to make purchases, a new Research Co. poll has found.

The online survey of a representative national sample asked Canadians about the way they bought things over the past month.

More than a third of financial transactions in Canada (37%, -3 since a similar Research Co. survey conducted in August 2023) involved a credit card, while just under three-in-ten (29%, +1) required a debit card.

Fewer financial transactions were completed with cash (18%, =), a smartphone (7%, =), an e-transfer (7%, +1) or a cheque (2%, =).

“Almost half of all purchases made by Canadians aged 55 and over (46%) entailed a credit card,” says Mario Canseco, President of Research Co. “The share is lower among Canadians aged 35-to-54 (37%) and aged 18-to-34 (29%).”

More than one-in-ten transactions made by Canadians aged 18-to-34 (11%) entailed the use of a smartphone. The proportions are lower among Canadians aged 35-to-54 (7%) and aged 55 and over (2%).

More than two thirds of Canadians (67%, +4) recall a moment in the past month when they did not have any paper money with them and had to buy something worth less than $10 with their credit or debit card.

Ontario (70%) and Quebec (69%) boast the largest proportions of residents who used a credit or debit card for a small purchase in the past month. The numbers are lower in British Columbia (67%), Alberta (also 67%), Saskatchewan and Manitoba (61%) and Atlantic Canada (58%).

As was the case last year, Canadians are divided on the issue of biometrics payments. Almost half (46%, +2) say they would like to see people relying on fingerprints, palm recognition or iris scans to buy things in their lifetime.

An almost exact proportion of Canadians (45%, =) say they would not like to see body measurements and calculations being used to make purchases, while 10% (-1) are not sure

Support for the eventual implementation of biometrics payments is highest among Canadians aged 18-to-34 (54%, +3), followed by those aged 35-to-54 (48%, +4) and those aged 55 and over (30%, -1).

About one-in-five Canadians (21%, -2) expect to be able to pay through fingerprints, palm recognition or iris scans in the next five years, while three-in-ten (30%, -3) think this will happen in the next 10 years.

Methodology: Results are based on an online survey conducted from January 3 to January 5, 2025, among a representative sample of 1,002 adults in Canada. The data has been statistically weighted according to Canadian census figures for age, gender and region in Canada. The margin of error—which measures sample variability—is +/- 3.1 percentage points, nineteen times out of twenty.

Find our data tables here and download the press release here.

Negative Views on Illegal Immigration Increase in United States

January 27, 2025January 26, 2025By Mario Canseco

The perception of illegal immigrants “taking jobs away from American workers” has increased by 12 points since 2020.

Vancouver, BC [January 27, 2025] – Practically half of Americans hold unfavourable views on immigration, and a majority believe illegal immigrants are detrimental to American workers, a new Research Co. poll has found.

In the online survey of a representative national sample, almost half of Americans (49%) think immigration is having a mostly negative effect in the United States, up 13 points since a similar Research Co. poll conducted in December 2020.

Americans aged 18-to-34 are more likely to hold unfavourable views on the effect of immigration (50%) than their counterparts aged 35-to-54 (42%) and aged 55 and over (26%).

One-in-four Americans (25%, +1) think the number of legal immigrants who are allowed to relocate in the United States should increase, while three-in-ten (30%, +1) would prefer to see a decrease and 37% (-5) want the number to remain the same.

More than half of Americans (52%, +12) say the illegal immigrants in the United States take jobs away from American workers, while fewer than two-in-five (38%, -8) say they are employed in jobs that American workers do not want.

“Just over three-in-four Republicans (75%) and more than half of Independents (51%) believe illegal immigrants in the United States take jobs away from American workers,” says Mario Canseco, President of Research Co. “Only 32% of Democrats share this view.”

Just over three-in-ten Americans (31%, +8) think the illegal immigrants who are currently working in the United States should be required to leave their jobs and be deported. One-in-five (21%, +2) would allow illegal immigrants to work on a temporary basis, but without a “path to citizenship”.

The proportion of Americans who would allow illegal immigrants to stay in the United States and eventually apply for citizenship fell from 49% in December 2020 to 38% in January 2025.

Most Democrats (56%) prefer the “path to citizenship” route to handle illegal immigration, while most Republicans (51%) are supportive of deportation. Independents are evenly split when assessing these options (34% for each).

Americans of Latino/Hispanic descent and African Americans are more likely to support a “path to citizenship” for illegal immigrants (50% and 47% respectively) than White Americans (34%).

Deportation is the desired course of action for Americans who get their news on a local network (41%) or on Fox News (35%). Those who watch CNN or MSNBC/CNBC are more likely to express support for the “path to citizenship” (47% and 55% respectively).

President Donald Trump begins is second term in office with an approval rating of 50%. Trump’s numbers are particularly high among Republicans (85%), Fox News watchers (67%), Americans aged 18-to-34 (60%) and White Americans (58%).

Methodology: Results are based on an online study conducted from January 22 to January 24, 2025, among 1,001 adults in the United States. The data has been statistically weighted according to U.S. census figures for age, gender and region. The margin of error—which measures sample variability—is +/- 3.1 percentage points, nineteen times out of twenty.

Find our data tables here and here, and download the press release here.

One-in-Four British Columbians Say They Are “Canadians Second”

January 22, 2025January 22, 2025By Mario Canseco

More than a third of respondents aged 18-to-34 think the province would be better off as its own country,

Vancouver, BC [January 22, 2025] – British Columbia’s youngest adults are more likely to look favourably at the concept of sovereignty, a new Research Co. poll has found.

In the online survey of a representative provincial sample, 28% of British Columbians (+8 since a similar Research Co. poll conducted in August 2023) think the province would be better off as its own country, while 60% (-12) disagree and 12% (+3) are not sure.

While only 16% of British Columbians aged 55 and over think the province would be better off as its own country, the proportion rises to 34% among those aged 35-to-54 and to 37% among those aged 18-to-34.

“British Columbians who voted for either the BC Conservatives or the BC Greens in last year’s provincial election are more likely to hold favourable views on sovereignty (36% and 34% respectively),” says Mario Canseco, President of Research Co. “Only 23% of those who cast ballots for the BC New Democratic Party (NDP) share this view.”

More than seven-in-ten British Columbians (71%, -2) think they will stay in the province for the rest of their lives. Among those aged 18-to-34, the proportion is lower (60%, +1).

More than three-in-five British Columbians (62%, =) consider themselves “Canadians first, British Columbians second”, while 25% (+4) say they are “British Columbians first, Canadians second.”

Residents of Northern BC are more likely to say they are “British Columbians first, Canadians second” (34%) than their counterparts in Metro Vancouver (25%), Vancouver Island (also 25%), Southern BC (23%) and the Fraser Valley (18%).

Practically four-in-five British Columbians (79%, -1) say they are very proud of the province that they live in, while more than three-in-five (64%, +7) believe their views are different from the rest of Canada.

Three-in-five British Columbians (60%, +2) believe the province’s residents have more in common with the people of Seattle and Portland than with those in Toronto or Montreal.

When asked to select the best premier the province has had since August 1986, one-in-four British Columbians (25%, -5) choose John Horgan. Gordon Campbell is second on the list with 11% (+3), followed by Christy Clark (7%, =), David Eby (also 7%, +3) and Mike Harcourt (6%, =).

Just under one-in-four British Columbians (23%, +4) pick Christy Clark as the worst recent premier of the province, followed by Campbell (11%, -2), Eby (9%, +5), Bill Vander Zalm (7%, =) and Glen Clark (7%, -1).

More than half of British Columbians (52%) say they would not have liked to see Christy Clark as leader of the Liberal Party of Canada—including 61% of BC NDP voters and 51% of BC Conservative voters in last year’s provincial election.

Just over one-in-four British Columbians (26%) say they would consider voting for the federal Liberals with Clark as leader, while a majority (58%) would not.

This survey was conducted before Clark announced on social media that she would not pursue the leadership of the Liberal Party of Canada at this time.

Methodology: Results are based on an online survey conducted from January 10 to January 12, 2025, among a representative sample of 800 adults in British Columbia. The data has been statistically weighted according to Canadian census figures for age, gender and region in British Columbia. The margin of error—which measures sample variability—is +/- 3.5 percentage points, nineteen times out of twenty.

Find our data tables here and download the press release here.

Career is Becoming a Priority for Canadians and Americans

January 6, 2025January 5, 2025By Mario Canseco

While 54% of Americans say country is “very important” to them personally, only 47% of Canadians concur.

Vancouver, BC [January 6, 2025] – The perceptions of Canadians and Americans on specific features of life have shifted over the past couple of years, a new two-country Research Co. poll has found.

In the online survey of representative national samples, 76% of Canadians and 74% of Americans say family is “very important” to them personally. This represents a three-point increase in Canada since 2023 and a three-point drop in the United States since 2022.

More than half of Canadians (51%, +2) say friends are “very important” to them. The proportions are lower for country (47%, +2), career (38%, +6), religion (26%, +1) and affluence (15%, +2).

In the United States, majorities of residents consider friends (56%, +1) and country (54%, +3) as “very important”. Fewer Americans feel the same way about career (41%, +1), religion (40%, +2) and affluence (21%, +9).

Just over two-in-five Americans aged 55 and over (43%) say religion is “very important” to them. The numbers are significantly lower among Canadians aged 55 and over (22%).

“In 2020 and 2021, only 29% of Canadians said career was very important to them,” says Mario Canseco, President of Research Co. “The proportion in 2024 is nine points higher.”

Fewer than three-in-five Canadians (57%, +2) describe themselves as “very spiritual” or “moderately spiritual.” In the United States, seven-in-ten residents (70%, +3) feel this way.

More than half of Canadians (51%, +2) and almost two thirds of Americans (65%, +2) describe their religious faith as Christian. Just under a third of Canadians (32%, -2) and fewer than one-in-four Americans (23%, -2) say they are atheist, agnostic or have no religious faith.

The Canadian province with the largest proportion of atheist, agnostic or non-religious residents is British Columbia (45%, +4). In the United States, residents of the Midwest are more likely to not have a specific religious faith (31%, +4) than their counterparts in the remaining census regions.

Just over one third of Canadians (34%, +4) say they never attend religious gatherings, while 23% (+1) go to a church, temple or synagogue at least once a week.

In the United States, almost a third of Americans (32%, +9) go to a church, temple or synagogue at least once a week, while more than one-in-four (27%, =) never do.

Methodology: Results are based on an online survey conducted from November 8 to November 10, 2024, among 1,000 adults in Canada and 1,001 adults in the United States. The data has been statistically weighted according to Canadian census figures for age, gender and region in each country. The margin of error—which measures sample variability—is plus or minus 3.1 percentage points, 19 times out of 20, for each country.

Find our data tables for Canada here, data tables for the United States here and download the press release here.

Majority of Canadians Expect Fun, Not Stressful, Holiday Season

December 18, 2024December 17, 2024By Mario Canseco

There is no clear consensus about the proper age to disclose “the truth” about Santa Claus to children.

Vancouver, BC [December 18, 2024] – The proportion of Canadians who foresee a tense holiday season increased since last year, even as more than half predict a relatively carefree time in the next few weeks, a new Research Co. poll has found.

In the online survey of a representative national sample, 53% of Canadians expect the current holiday season to be “more fun than stressful” (-3 since a similar Research Co. poll conducted in December 2023), while 31% (+4) believe it will be “more stressful than fun.”

“About a third of Canadians aged 18-to-34 and aged 35-to-54 (both at 34%) think the holiday season will be stressful,” says Mario Canseco, President of Research Co. “Only 27% of Canadians aged 55 and over share this view.”

“Merry Christmas” remains the preferred greeting for Canadians (62%, +1), while just under one-in-four (24%, +3) like “Happy Holidays” and 14% (-2) are not sure or do not care either way.

More than two thirds of Atlantic Canadians (73%) and Albertans (67%) choose “Merry Christmas” as their greeting. The proportions are lower in Ontario (64%), Saskatchewan and Manitoba (63%), British Columbia (62%) and Quebec (52%).

Three staples of the holiday season remain popular across the country. At least three-in-five Canadians say they like turkey (85%, +2), cranberry sauce (68%, +3) and Brussels sprouts (60%, =).

The rating is lower for egg nog (59%, +3), fruit cake (58%, =), mince pies (49%, -1), plum pudding (47%, =) and mulled wine (40%, +3).

Quebec remains the province with the smallest proportion of residents who like egg nog (49%). The numbers are higher in Ontario (63%), Saskatchewan and Manitoba (also 63%), Atlantic Canada (also 63%), British Columbia (59%) and Alberta (55%).

Respondents to this survey were also asked how old they were when they learned “the truth” about Santa Claus. More than half of Canadians (56%) say they found out at age 9 or younger, while fewer than three-in-ten (28%) realized at age 10 or older.

Just over a third of Canadians aged 18-to-34 (34%) found out “the truth” about Santa Claus after their 10th birthday. The proportions are lower among their counterparts aged 35-to-54 (30%) and aged 55 and over (20%).

Half of Canadians (50%) think the appropriate age for children to be told “the truth” about Santa Claus is age 9 or younger, while more than a third (36%) believe this should happen at age 10 or older.

Almost half of Atlantic Canadians (48%) think “the truth” about Santa Claus should be discussed with children after they turn 10. The proportions are lower in Ontario (42%), Alberta (40%), British Columbia (35%), Saskatchewan and Manitoba (34%) and Quebec (24%).

Just over seven-in-ten Canadians (71%) say they are satisfied with the way their parents and/or caregivers handled conversations about “the truth” about Santa Claus, while 15% are dissatisfied.

The level of dissatisfaction with these conversations is highest among Canadians aged 18-to-34 (20%), Canadians of South Asian descent (19%), Ontarians (18%), Conservative Party voters in the 2021 federal election (16%) and Canadians in the highest. Income bracket (also 16%).

Methodology: Results are based on an online survey conducted from December 5 to December 7, 2024, among a representative sample of 1,004 adults in Canada. The data has been statistically weighted according to Canadian census figures for age, gender and region Canada. The margin of error—which measures sample variability—is +/- 3.1 percentage points, nineteen times out of twenty.

Find our data tables here and download the press release here.

British Columbians Would Lower Speed Limit on Residential Streets

December 13, 2024December 12, 2024By Mario Canseco

The use of speed-on-green intersection cameras is endorsed by more than seven-in-ten of the province’s residents.

Vancouver, BC [December 13, 2024] – More than three-in-five British Columbians would personally like to see the speed limit reduced to 30 km/h on all residential streets in their own municipality, while keeping the speed limit on arterial and collector roads at 50 km/h, a new Research Co. poll has found.

In the online survey of a representative provincial sample, 63% of British Columbians are in favour of this directive, up two points since a similar Research Co. survey conducted in November 2023.

Support for reducing the speed limit to 30 km/h on all residential streets, while keeping the speed limit on arterial and collector roads at 50 km/h, is highest in Metro Vancouver (65%), followed by the Fraser Valley (62%), Northern BC (61%), Vancouver Island (59%) and Southern BC (58%).

In 2019, Vancouver City Council unanimously passed a motion to establish a pilot project to reduce the speed limit to 30 km/h on select residential streets in the city. The pilot project was first implemented in the Grandview-Woodland neighbourhood.

Just over two thirds of British Columbians (67%, -2) believe the pilot project in Vancouver is a “very good” or “good” idea—including 70% of Metro Vancouverites and 69% of residents of Southern BC.

Two-in-five British Columbians (40%, -3) see a car that they perceive is circulating above the speed limit of 50 km/h on the street where they live “at least once a day”, while 30% (+2) experience this “a few times a week”.

The survey also asked British Columbians about automated speed enforcement, which works by using cameras or sensors to pick up a vehicle speeding. A ticket is then issued to the owner of the vehicle. Driver’s license points are not issued as the driver of the vehicle cannot be identified.

More than seven-in-ten British Columbians approve of three kinds of automated speed enforcement: speed-on-green intersection cameras, or red light cameras that also capture vehicles that are speeding through intersections (72%, =), fixed speed cameras, which stay in one location and measure speed as a vehicle passes (71%, -2), and point-to-point enforcement, which uses cameras at two or more distant points on a road to issue tickets to vehicles whose average speed over the distance was excessive (also 71%, +14).

“The use of speed-on-green cameras, which is currently in place in British Columbia, remains popular across the province,” says Mario Canseco, President of Research Co. “Majorities of residents aged 18-to-34 (72%), aged 35-to-54 (also 72%) and aged 55 and over (also 72%) are in favour of this type of automated speed enforcement.”

More than three-in-five British Columbians approve of one other kind of automated speed enforcement: mobile speed cameras, which can be moved from place to place (64%, =).

Methodology: Results are based on an online survey conducted from November 27 to November 29, 2024, among a representative sample of 801 adults in British Columbia. The data has been statistically weighted according to Canadian census figures for age, gender and region in British Columbia. The margin of error—which measures sample variability—is +/- 3.5 percentage points, nineteen times out of twenty.

Find our data tables here and download the press release here.

Almost Half in Canada and USA See Trump Followers as “Cult”

December 4, 2024December 4, 2024By Mario Canseco

Residents of both countries are less critical when assessing people who refuse to be vaccinated against COVID-19.

Vancouver, BC [December 4, 2024] – A significant proportion of Canadians and Americans hold a particularly negative view of followers of Donald Trump and the Republican Party, a new two-country Research Co. poll has found.

In the online survey of representative national samples, respondents in Canada and the United States were asked if it is far or unfair to refer to followers of specific people, parties and ideas as a cult.

A cult is often defined as a group which is typically led by a charismatic leader, who tightly controls its members, requiring unwavering devotion to a set of beliefs and practices which are considered outside the norms of society.

Almost half of Canadians (47%) and Americans (46%) think it is fair to refer to followers of the Republican Party and Donald Trump as a cult.

Half of Canadians aged 55 and over (50%) can describe followers of Trump and the Republicans as a cult. The numbers are lower among their counterparts aged 35-to-54 (42%) and aged 18-to-34 (48%).

In the United States, respondents aged 55 and over are less likely to believe it is warranted for followers of Trump and the Republicans to be thought of as a cult (42%) than their counterparts aged 18-to-34 (48%) and aged 35-to-54 (49%).

“Americans who describe themselves as Democrats (76%) and Canadians who voted for the Liberal Party or the New Democratic Paty (NDP) in 2021 (63% and 54% respectively) think it is fair to refer to followers of Trump and the Republicans as a cult,” says Mario Canseco, President of Research Co. “The proportions are lower among Republicans in the United States (41%) and Conservatives in Canada (40%).”

At least two-in-five Canadians (40%) and Americans (42%) think it is warranted to refer to people who participated in the protests and blockades against restrictions and mandates related to the COVID-19 pandemic as a cult. Slightly smaller proportions of Canadians and Americans (36% and 39% respectively) feel the same way about people who refuse to be vaccinated against COVID-19.

While 37% of Americans believe it is fair to refer to followers of the Democratic Party and Kamala Harris in the United States as a cult, the proportion drops to 30% in Canada. The results are similar for followers of Robert Kennedy Jr. in the United States (38% in the United States and 29% in Canada).

In Canada, at least a third of respondents believe it is warranted to refer to followers of the Conservative Party and Pierre Poilievre (35%) and followers of the Liberal Party and Justin Trudeau (33%) as cults, The proportions are lower for followers of the New Democratic Party (NDP) and Jagmeet Singh (31%), followers of the People’s Party and Maxime Bernier (also 31%) and followers of the Green Party and Elizabeth May in Canada (26%).

Find our data tables for Canada here, data tables for the United States here and download the press release here.

Most British Columbians Targeted by “Phishing” Scams

November 27, 2024November 26, 2024By Mario Canseco

Compared to 2022, fewer of the province’s residents say their computer became infected with a virus while they were online.

Vancouver, BC [November 27, 2024] – More than three-in-five British Columbians recall receiving an email where somebody attempted to acquire personal information by masquerading as a trustworthy entity, a new Research Co. poll has found.

In the online survey of a representative provincial sample, 61% of British Columbians say they have received a “phishing” email, down two points since a similar Research Co. poll conducted in April 2022.

More than half of British Columbians (54%, -4) received an email offering them money for their help and assistance, in what is usually referred to as the “Nigerian scam.”

Fewer of the province’s residents say their computer became infected with a virus while they were browsing the Internet (25%, -6), or endured hackers accessing their social media platform (15%, -1) or email address (15%, =).

More than three-in-four British Columbians participate in five activities online at least a few times per month: visiting websites or blogs (87%, -2), accessing banking information (also 87%, =), looking for deals on websites (78%, -3), using an instant messaging service (80%, +1) and looking for directions and/or maps to get to a destination (76%, +3).

Fewer British Columbians purchase goods from a website (59%, -1), post on social media (53%, -4), upload pictures or videos to the Internet (48%, -5) or use the Internet to place telephone calls (39%, =) at least a few times per month.

Roughly half of British Columbians have worried “frequently” or “occasionally” about having their personal information stolen over the Internet (50%, -1), computers and technology being used to invade their privacy (49%, -2) and somebody hacking into their own computer or smartphone (47%, +1).

Just over half of British Columbians (53%, -3) say they are “very” or “moderately” comfortable commenting on an online forum that requires an email address.

The level of comfort is significantly higher for other online activities, including making charitable donations (70%, -3), accessing banking information (86%, -1), shopping (86%, -3) and sending emails (90%, -4).

“Only 29% of British Columbians aged 55 and over are very comfortable shopping online,” says Mario Canseco, President of Research Co. “The proportions are higher among their counterparts aged 35-to-54 (47%) and aged 18-to-34 (50%).”

More than half of British Columbians (57%, -5) have typed their name on Google to see what has been posted about them online.

Among the province’s residents who googled themselves, 57% (-4) claim that the information that came up was “accurate”, while 13% (+1) think it was “inaccurate”. Three-in-ten of these residents (30%, +3) did not find information about themselves online.

Just over one-in-four British Columbians (26%, +4) only have one email address, while 41% (=) possess two and 33% (-4) have three or more.

Methodology: Results are based on an online survey conducted from November 15 to November 17, 2024, among a representative sample of 800 adults in British Columbia. The data has been statistically weighted according to Canadian census figures for age, gender and region in British Columbia. The margin of error—which measures sample variability—is +/- 3.5 percentage points, nineteen times out of twenty.

Find our data tables here and download the press release here.

More Canadians Interested in Grey Cup Now Than in 2021

November 13, 2024November 26, 2024By Mario Canseco

The proportion of Canadians who consider themselves fans of the NBA rose by seven points since 2021.

Vancouver, BC [November 13, 2024] – A larger proportion of Canadians intend to watch the Canadian Football League (CFL) championship game this weekend than three years ago, a new Research Co. poll has found.

In the online survey of a representative national sample, 44% of Canadians say they will “definitely” or “probably” watch the Grey Cup on November 17, up four points since a similar Research Co. poll conducted in November 2021.

More than half of Canadians (53%, +3) plan to watch the Super Bowl of the National Football League (NFL) in February—a proportion that rises to 59% among Canadians aged 18-to-34.

“The Grey Cup is particularly appealing to Canadians of South Asian (56%), Indigenous (45%) and European (43%) ancestry,” says Mario Canseco, President of Research Co. “Only 31% of Canadians of East Asian descent plan to watch the game.”

The results are different for the Super Bowl. At least half of Canadians whose origins are European (50%), East Asian (51%), Indigenous (63%) and South Asian (64%) plan to watch the contest next year.

Three-in-five Canadians (60%, +5) consider themselves fans of the National Hockey League (NHL). Fandom is lower for all the other leagues tested, including the NFL (39%, +3), the National Basketball Association (NBA) (38%, +7), the CFL (33%, +1), Major League Baseball (MLB) (also 33%, +2) and Major League Soccer (MLS) (26%, +4).

Roughly the same proportions of Canadians aged 18-to-34 (33%), aged 35-to-54 (31%) and aged 55 and over (34%) are fans of the CFL. In contrast, NFL fans in Canada are primarily aged 18-to-34 (43%) and aged 35-to-54 (41%).

More than two-in-five Canadian men consider themselves fans of the NHL (66%), the NBA (47%), the NFL (46%) and MLB (41%). The proportions are lower for the CFL (38%) and MLS (33%).

Among female respondents, the most popular leagues are the NHL (55%) and the NFL (31%). Fewer than three-in-ten Canadian women are fans of the NBA (29%), the CFL (27%), MLB (25%) and MLS (19%).

Just under one-in-four Canadians (24%, +5) have become more interested in the NHL over the past two years. The results are lower for the NFL (16%, +6), the NBA (15%, +3), MLS (14%, +6), the CFL (12%, +4) and MLB (also 12%, +4).

In 2021, the Edmonton CFL franchise changed its name from Eskimos to Elks. More than two-in-five Canadians (44%, -2) think the team made the correct decision, while 31% (+2) disagree.

In Alberta, almost half of residents (48%, +1) think Edmonton’s CFL franchise should have kept its previous name, while 41% (+1) are in favour of the change to Elks.

Methodology: Results are based on an online survey conducted from November 1 to November 3, 2024, among 1,000 adults in Canada. The data has been statistically weighted according to Canadian census figures for age, gender and region in Canada. The margin of error—which measures sample variability—is plus or minus 3.1 percentage points, 19 times out of 20.

Find our data tables here and download the press release here.

Photo Credit: TorontoGuy79

Most Canadians Would Restrain Residential School Denialism

November 6, 2024November 5, 2024By Mario Canseco

Respondents of all age groups want their own Member of Parliament to support the bill proposed by the NDP’s Leah Gazan.

Vancouver, BC [November 6, 2024] – Practically three-in-five Canadians back a proposal to criminalize residential school denialism, a new Research Co. poll has found.

Leah Gazan, a New Democratic Party (NDP) Member of Parliament from Manitoba, recently introduced a private member’s bill in the House of Commons. The bill seeks to make it a Criminal Code offence to willfully promote hatred against Indigenous people by condoning, denying, justifying or minimizing the facts about residential schools.

In the online survey of a representative national sample, 59% of Canadians want their own MP to vote in favour of Gazan’s bill, while 24% would prefer for their elected representative to vote against it.

“Support for criminalizing residential school denialism is highest among NDP (77%) and Liberal Party (67%) voters in 2021,” says Mario Canseco, President of Research Co. “Fewer than half of Conservative Party voters in the last federal election (46%) concur.”

The level of support for Gazan’s bill is similar among Canadians aged 18-to-34 (60%), aged 35-to-54 (59%) and aged 55 and over (58%).

Majorities of Canadians whose desscent is Indigenous (69%), South Asian (65%), East Asian (61%) and European (59%) want their elected representative to support the Gazan’s bill.

This survey confirms the findings of a Research Co. poll conducted in August 2020, which focused on the way Canadians learned about residential schools.

Almost half of Canadians who attended Elementary School and/or High School in Canada (48%) say they did not hear about residential schools at all during their time as students.

Canadians aged 55 and over who attended Elementary School and/or High School in Canada are less likely to have learned about residential schools in the classroom (70%) than their counterparts aged 35-to-54 (51%) and aged 18-to-34 (26%).

Looking back at what they were told as students in Canada, 41% of these respondents say the assessment of residential schools provided by their teachers at the time was positive, while 36% recall it as negative.

The perceptions of these respondents are very different now, with 54% saying they currently view residential schools in a negative light, and 34% saying their opinion is positive.

More than half of Canadians aged 18-to-34 (58%) and aged 55 and over (52%) who attended Elementary School and/or High School in Canada now have a negative view of residential schools.

Methodology: Results are based on an online survey conducted from October 21 to October 23, 2024, among 1,001 adults in Canada. The data has been statistically weighted according to Canadian census figures for age, gender and region in Canada. The margin of error—which measures sample variability—is plus or minus 3.1 percentage points, 19 times out of 20.

Find our data tables here and download the press release here.

Photo Credit: TheGoodAndHolyLord

Canadians Ambivalent on Moving Halloween to Saturdays

October 29, 2024October 28, 2024By Mario Canseco

The proportion of Canadians who enjoy pumpkin spice beverages has increased from 44% in 2022 to 52% this year.

Vancouver, BC [October 29, 2024] – Compared to two years ago, fewer Canadians are convinced about celebrating every Halloween on the weekend, a new Research Co. poll has found.

In the online survey of a representative national sample, 41% of Canadians agree with moving Halloween to the last Saturday in October, down three points since a similar Research Co. poll conducted in October 2022.

More than two-in-five Canadians (44%, +5) disagree with changing Halloween’s date, while 15% (-2) are undecided.

Support for moving Halloween to the last Saturday in October is highest in Quebec (45%), followed by Ontario (41%), British Columbia (also 41%), Atlantic Canada (40%), Alberta (37%) and Saskatchewan and Manitoba (34%).

The survey also asked Canadians about the suitability of specific Halloween costumes for children and adults. More than half of Canadians believe children’s costumes that represent an ethnic stereotype (58%, -2) or that change the colour of the wearer’s skin (53%, -4) are inappropriate.

More than two-in-five Canadians also believe three other kinds of children’s costumes are inappropriate: those that require toy or replica weapons (48%, -3), those that refer to a culture that is not the wearer’s own (42%, -1) and those that depict a social stereotype (such as a jailbird or vagabond) (41%, +1).

The perceptions of Canadians are similar when the same garments are imagined on adults. Three-in-five (60%, =) think costumes that represent an ethnic stereotype are inappropriate, and more than half (54%, -6) feel the same way about costumes that alter the adult’s skin colour.

More than two-in-five Canadians find fault in adult costumes that refer to a culture that is not the adult’s own (46%, -4), incorporate toy or replica weapons (45%, -5) or represent a social stereotype (41%, =).

“Majorities of Canadians whose ancestry is Indigenous (55%) or European (52%) decry adult Halloween costumes that refer to a culture that is not the wearer’s own (55%),” says Mario Canseco, President of Research Co. “The proportions are lower among Canadians of East Asian (49%) and South Asian (38%) descent.”

Candy corn remains an extremely contentious confection, with 47% of Canadians (+5) saying they like it, and 45% (-3) saying they dislike it.

Animosity towards candy corn reaches 47% among Canadians aged 35-to-54 and 49% among Quebecers. Conversely, the confection is particularly popular among Canadians aged 18-to-34 (50%) and Ontarians (also 50%).

More than half of Canadians (52%, +8) say they like pumpkin spice flavoured drinks, while larger proportions enjoy pumpkin spice flavoured cakes (67%, +9) and pumpkin pie (70%, +4).

Find our data tables here and download the press release here.

Photo Credit: Patricia (Brownies for Dinner)

Most Canadians Still Regard Marijuana Legalization Favourably

October 23, 2024October 28, 2024By Mario Canseco

Only half of cannabis users are acquiring “all” of their product at licensed retailers in their provinces.

Vancouver, BC [October 23, 2024] – While most Canadians continue to endorse the legalization of marijuana, only half of consumers acknowledge that all of their product was acquired at a licensed retailer in the past six years, a new Research Co. poll has found.

In the online survey of a representative national sample, 62% of Canadians (-2 since a similar Research Co. poll conducted in October 2023) agree with marijuana being legal in Canada, while 33% disagree and 4% are undecided.

Agreement with legal cannabis in Canada is highest in Quebec (66%), followed by Alberta (64%), Ontario (also 64%), British Columbia (60%), Atlantic Canada (56%) and Saskatchewan and Manitoba (53%).

Canadians of Indigenous or European origins are more likely to support the legalization of marijuana (75% and 67% respectively) than their counterparts of South Asian or East Asian descent (57% and 45% respectively).

“Over the past four years, the legalization of marijuana has consistently been endorsed by more than three-in-five Canadians,” says Mario Canseco, President of Research Co. “In 2024, opposition has risen to 33% for the first time.”

More than half of Canadians (52%) say they have not consumed marijuana in Canada, while one third (33%) tried it before it was legal and 14% only did so after legalization.

Just over half of Canadians who have consumed marijuana since October 2018 (51%) say all of their product was acquired at a licensed retailer, while 40% say that “most”, “some” or “none” of their cannabis was bought this way.

More than half of marijuana consumers in Alberta (55%), Saskatchewan and Manitoba (also 55%) and Ontario (53%) say all of their cannabis was bought at a licensed retailer. The proportions are lower in Quebec (49%), Atlantic Canada (47%) and British Columbia (39%).

More than three-in-five Canadians (63%, +5) think companies in Canada should be able to administer “drug tests” to any employee now that marijuana is legal.

The concept of “drug tests” at businesses is endorsed by 66% of Canadians aged 55 and over, 63% of those aged 18-to-34 and 60% of those aged 35-to-54.

Almost three-in-four Canadians (74%, +5) agree with the federal government providing expungement orders to people convicted of possession of cannabis for personal use with no intent to traffic.

Majorities of Canadians who voted for the Liberal Party (82%), the New Democratic Party (NDP) (77%) and the Conservative Party (75%) in the 2021 federal election are in favour of the strategy to destroy or remove any judicial record of a conviction for possession of cannabis for personal use with no intent to traffic.

As was the case last year, few Canadians are willing to legalize other drugs, including ecstasy (15%, +3), powder cocaine (14%, +2), heroin (12%, +2), crack cocaine (also 12%, +2), methamphetamine or “crystal meth” (also 12%, +3) or fentanyl (10%, +1).

Methodology: Results are based on an online survey conducted from October 13 to October 15, 2024, among 1,001 adults in Canada. The data has been statistically weighted according to Canadian census figures for age, gender and region in Canada. The margin of error—which measures sample variability—is plus or minus 3.1 percentage points, 19 times out of 20.

Find our data tables here and download the press release here.