Canada – Research Co.

Liberals Remain Dominant as Canadians Focus on United States

November 12, 2026November 12, 2026By Mario Canseco

Canada-U.S. Relations is the most important issue for the first time since July 2025, overtaking housing and financial concerns.

Vancouver, BC [November 12, 2026] – The standing of Canada’s main federal political parties did not vary much over the past three months, a new Research Co. poll has found.

In the online survey of a representative national sample, 47% of decided voters across Canada (unchanged since a similar Research Co. poll conducted in August) would cast a ballot for the Liberal Party candidate in their riding if a federal election were held today.

The Conservative Party is second with 28% (+1), followed by the New Democratic Party (NDP) with 11% (+1), the Bloc Québécois with 6% (=), the Green Party with 4% (-1), the People’s Party with 2% (-2) and other parties and independent candidates with 1% (=).

The governing Liberals hold sizeable leads over the Conservatives among Baby Boomers (57% to 23%), Generation X (49% to 33%) and Generation Z (48% to 22%). The race is closer but with the governing party still ahead, among Millennials (38% to 32%).

Majorities of decided voters in Atlantic Canada (54%) and Quebec (53%) would support the Liberals in the next federal election. The governing party is also ahead in British Columbia (47%) and Ontario (45%) and trails the Conservatives in Alberta by five points (36% to 41%).

When Canadians are asked about the most important issue facing the country, more than one-in-four (26%, +14) mention Canada-U.S. Relations, followed by housing, homelessness and poverty (19%, -4), the economy and jobs (18%, -7), health care (12%, -2) and immigration (8%, -1).

“Canadians were clearly enthralled by the midterm elections in the United States,” says Mario Canseco, President of Research Co. “Canada-U.S. Relations had not been ranked as the most important issue facing Canada since July 2025.”

More than three-in-five Canadians (62%, +3) approve of the performance of Mark Carney as Prime Minister and leader of the Liberal Party, while two-in-five (40%, +2) are satisfied with how Pierre Poilievre is managing his duties as leader of the Official Opposition and the Conservative Party

The approval rating is lower this month for outgoing Green leader Elizabeth May (35%, -2), NDP leader Avi Lewis (also 35%, +3), Bloc leader Yves-François Blanchet (24%, -4) and People’s Party leader Maxime Bernier (23%, +1).

The “Preferred Prime Minister” question places Carney at 46% (+1), followed by Poilievre at 22% (=) and with the remaining federal party leaders in single digits.

Carney maintains double-digit leads over Poilievre when Canadians are asked which one of the two leaders is best suited to manage nine different issues: foreign affairs (52% to 26%), Canada-U.S. Relations (50% to 23%), national unity (48% to 26%), accountability and leadership (48% to 26%), the economy and jobs (47% to 29%), energy and pipelines (45% to 28%), health care (42% to 26%), the environment (40% to 24%), and housing, homelessness and poverty (40% to 29%).

Poilievre manages to reach or surpass the 30% mark on two issues where he still trails Carney: immigration (30% to 40%) and crime and public safety (33% to 38%).

Methodology: Results are based on an online survey conducted from November 2 to November 4, 2026, among 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 plus or minus 3.1 percentage points, 19 times out of 20.

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

Permanent Saturday Halloween Not Popular Among Canadians

October 29, 2026October 28, 2026By Mario Canseco

Costumes for children and adults that feature replica weapons are regarded more negatively now than two years ago.

Vancouver, BC [October 29, 2026] – The idea of always observing Halloween on a Saturday has lost support in Canada over the past two years, a new Research Co. poll has found.

In the online survey of a representative national sample, 35% of Canadians agree with moving Halloween to the last Saturday in October, down six points since a similar Research Co. poll conducted in October 2024.

More than two-in-five Canadians (44%, =) disagree with modifying Halloween’s date every year, while 20% (+5) are not sure.

Quebec is the only region of the country where more than two-in-five respondents (45%, =) favour observing Halloween on the last Saturday in October. The proportions are lower in Ontario (34%, -7), Atlantic Canada (also 34%, -6), Saskatchewan and Manitoba (also 34%, =), British Columbia (32%, -9) and Alberta (31%, -6).

More than half of Canadians think three types of children’s Halloween costumes are inappropriate: those that represent an ethnic stereotype (58%, =), those that change the colour of the wearer’s skin (55%, +2) and those that incorporate toy or replica weapons (54%, +6),

Fewer Canadians find fault with children’s Halloween costumes that refer to a culture that is not the wearer’s own (43%, +1) or that depict a social stereotype (such as a jailbird or vagabond) (42%, +1).

The results are similar when Canadians are asked about costumes that adults can wear during Halloween. At least half think the garments are inappropriate if they represent an ethnic stereotype (58%, -2), alter the adult’s skin colour (55%, +1) or incorporate toy or replica weapons (50%, +5).

Fewer Canadians question the suitability of adult costumes that refer to a culture that is not the adult’s own (49%, +3) or that represent a social stereotype (44%, +3).

There is little consensus among Canadians when pondering the appropriate age for kids to trick-or-treat by themselves. More than two-in-five (44%) think children aged 12 or 13 can trick-or-treat without adult supervision, while fewer select age 14 or older (21%) or ages 9 to 11 (19%).

When asked about the appropriate age for kids to stop trick-or-treating altogether, just under three-in-ten Canadians (29%) establish adulthood as the cutoff point. Fewer believe the correct time is when kids are aged 16 or 17 (21%) or aged 14 or 15 (22%).

As was the case two years ago, seven-in-ten Canadians (70%, =) say they enjoy pumpkin pie and majorities also like pumpkin spice flavoured cakes (60%, -7) and pumpkin spice flavoured drinks (52%, =).

Canadians remained divided in their assessment of candy corn, with 47% (=) liking the confection and 44% (-1) disliking it.

“Half of Canadians aged 55 and over (50%) express a distaste for candy corn,” says Mario Canseco, President of Research Co. “The proportions are lower among Canadians aged 35-to-54 (41%) and aged 18-to-34 (38%).”

Methodology: Results are based on an online survey conducted from October 18 to October 20, 2026, 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.

Trophy Hunting, Furriers and Rodeos Still Mostly Disliked in Canada

October 22, 2026October 21, 2026By Mario Canseco

Seven-in-ten Canadians are in favour of eating animals, and just over three-in-five approve of hunting animals for meat.

Vancouver, BC [October 22, 2026] – Fewer than a third of Canadians are supportive of three practices that involve animals, a new Research Co. poll has found.

In the online survey of a representative national sample, 16% of Canadians (+4 since a similar Research Co. poll conducted in November 2025) are in favour of hunting animals for sport or “trophy hunting”.

Only one-in-five Canadians (20%, +4) are supportive of killing animals for their fur, while three-in-ten (30%, +5) favour using animals in rodeos.

“Acceptance for trophy hunting, furriers and rodeos has increased in Canada over the past year,” says Mario Canseco, President of Research Co. “Still, majorities of Canadians remain opposed to each of them.”

There is a strong gender divide when Canadians assess trophy hunting. While 22% of men see no problem with hunting animals for sport, only 9% of women concur.

The gender gap is also sizeable on furriers (29% of Canadian men are in favour, compared to 11% of Canadian women) and rodeos (37% of Canadian men are in favour, compared to 23% of Canadian women)

On a regional basis, the use of animals in rodeos is favoured by 43% of Albertans. The proportions are decidedly lower in Saskatchewan and Manitoba (33%), British Columbia (28%), Atlantic Canada (27%), Ontario (also 27%) and Quebec (25%).

More than two-in-five Canadians (42%, +8) are in favor of keeping animals in zoos or aquariums. Canadians aged 18-to-34 are less likely to agree with this practice (37%) than their counterparts aged 55 and over (43%) and aged 35-to-54 (46%).

More than three-in-five Canadians (62%, +2) are in favor of hunting animals for meat. This practice is acceptable for sizeable proportions of Canadians of Indigenous or European descent (78% and 71% respectively) but not by majorities of those whose origins are East Asian or South Asian (48% and 43% respectively).

Seven-in-ten Canadians (70%, +1) are in favor of eating animals. This practice is endorsed by 74% of Canadians aged 55 and over, 70% of Canadians aged 35-to-54 and 66% of Canadians aged 18-to-34.

Methodology: Results are based on an online survey conducted from October 4 to October 6, 2026, 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 +/- 3.1 percentage points, nineteen times out of twenty.

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

Drivers Getting Better, But Finger-Pointing Continues in Canada

October 15, 2026October 15, 2026By Mario Canseco

The most widely observed undesirable behaviour on the country’s roads is drivers not signalling before a turn.

Vancouver, BC [October 15, 2026] – The perceptions of Canadians on drivers are slightly more positive in 2026 than last year, a new Research Co. poll has found.

In the online survey of a representative national sample, just over half of Canadians (52%) say drivers in their city or town are worse now than five years ago, down four points since a similar Research Co. poll conducted in February 2025.

About a third of Canadians (34%, +1) say drivers have not changed, while just over one-in-ten (11%, +4) believe they are now better than five years ago.

In Quebec, only 40% of residents (-7) believe drivers in their city or town are worse now than five years ago. The proportions are higher in British Columbia (52%, -5), Alberta (54%, -5), Saskatchewan and Manitoba (55%, -1), Ontario (56%, -3) and Atlantic Canada (58%, -5).

“More than half of women (56%, +1) say drivers in their city or town are worse now than five years ago,” says Mario Canseco, President of Research Co. “Only 47% of men (-11) share the same opinion.”

Compared to 2025, the survey shows a lower incidence of six specific occurrences on the country’s roads over the past month.

Just over a third of Canadians (34%, -6) say they went through a close call while on a vehicle, such as having to slam the brakes or steer violently to avoid a collision. This event was more prevalent among Canadians aged 18-to-34 (39%) and British Columbians (42%).

More than a third of Canadians (36%, -6) recall a vehicle “lane tracking”, or turning right or left from an incorrect lane. Once again, British Columbia is the province where this behaviour was observed the most (44%).

Just under half of Canadians witnessed a driver not stopping before an intersection (46%, -7) or a car taking up two or more spaces in a parking lot (48%, -2).

In Alberta, more than half of respondents (55%) recall a vehicle occupying two parking spots at once.

The most common mishap on the road is still drivers not signalling before a turn (61%, -3), a behaviour recalled by more than seven-in-ten British Columbians (72%) over the past month.

By a 2-to-1 margin, Canadians are ready to point the finger at specific groups or people in their city or town who are worse drivers than others (67% to 33%).

An analysis of the verbatim responses from the 67% of Canadians (+5) who were asked specifically which groups or people in their city or town are worse drivers than others yielded these results:

More than a third (34%) focused on age (older/senior people at 18% and young/teen drivers at 16%).
Three-in-ten (30%) mentioned a driver’s origin (ethnicity/nationality/race at 17% and immigrants/newcomers at 13%).
Fewer than one-in-ten focused on gender (8%) or on behaviour/risk factors (6%).

Methodology: Results are based on an online survey conducted from September 21 to September 23, 2026, among 1,003 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.

Most Canadians Would Welcome a UK-Style Smoking Ban

October 9, 2026October 9, 2026By Mario Canseco

The decision to print warning labels on individual cigarettes is endorsed by more than seven-in-ten Canadians.

Vancouver, BC [October 9, 2026] – As the United Kingdom prepares to implement its Generational Smoking Ban in 2027, Canadians maintain a favourable opinion on the legislation and would like to implement it in Canada, a new Research Co. poll has found.

The Government of the United Kingdom has ratified legislation related to the sale of cigarettes. Under the new law, the legal age to purchase cigarettes in the United Kingdom—currently set at 18 years—will increase by one year every year. In essence, people born in or after 2009 will never be allowed to purchase cigarettes.

In the online survey of a representative national sample, two thirds of Canadians (66%, +1 since a similar Research Co. poll conducted in April 2024) hold a positive opinion of the UK’s legislation, while 21% (=) have negative views.

When asked if Canada should consider a law similar to the one ratified in the United Kingdom (that is, increase the legal age to purchase cigarettes every year so that people born in or after 2009 are never allowed to purchase cigarettes), just over three-in-five Canadians (61%, -2) believe this should be the case, while one-in-four (25%, =) are opposed and 14% (-1) are undecided.

“Support for a Generational Smoking Ban in Canada is highest among Canadians aged 18-to-34 (65%),” says Mario Canseco, President of Research Co. “Majorities of Canadians aged 35-to-54 (59%) and aged 55 and over (58%) also endorse the legislation.”

On a regional basis, more than seven-in-ten British Columbians (73%) think Canada should emulate the legislation that will be implemented in the United Kingdom. Support is lower, but still in majority territory, in Quebec (63%), Saskatchewan and Manitoba (60%), Ontario (59%), Alberta (54%) and Atlantic Canada (also 54%).

Only 50% of Conservative Party voters in the 2025 federal election are in favour of a Generational Smoking Ban in Canada. The proportions are higher among Canadians who supported the New Democratic Party (NDP) (65%) or the Liberal Party (70%) last year.

Just over half of Canadians who smoked tobacco in any form over the past year (52%) are also in favour of Canada enacting legislation similar to the British one, along with more than three-in-five non-smokers (63%).

In 2024, Canada became the first country to mandate printed warning labels on individual cigarettes sold in the country. More than seven-in-ten Canadians (71%, +3) believe the federal government made the correct decision with this mandate, while 17% (-3) disagree and 12% (+1) are undecided.

Over the course of the past year, fewer than one-in-five Canadians smoked marijuana (18%, -1), consumed marijuana in a non-smoking form (edibles) (17%, +2), used an electronic cigarette or e-cigarette (vaping) (16%, =) or consumed tobacco in a non-smoking form (chewable tobacco) (7%, +3).

As was the case in 2024, just over one-in-five Canadians (21%, =) smoked tobacco in any form (cigarette, cigar, pipe) in the last 12 months.

This year, the lowest proportion of tobacco smokers is observed in British Columbia (19%, +1), Saskatchewan and Manitoba (also 19%, +3) and Alberta (also 19%, -10). The proportions are slightly higher in Atlantic Canada (21%, +4), Quebec (22%, -4) and Ontario (also 22%, +4).

Canadians aged 18-to-34 are more likely to have smoked tobacco in the past year (25%, +5) than their counterparts aged 35-to-54 (22%, =) and aged 55 and over (16%, -5).

The incidence of vaping remains markedly higher among Canadians aged 18-to-34 (27%, =) than among those aged 35-to-54 (19%, +3) and those aged 55 and over (5%, =).

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

Canadians Keep Avoiding U.S. Goods as Dispute Intensifies

October 1, 2026October 1, 2026By Mario Canseco

Almost two thirds of Canadians approve of the way Prime Minister Mark Carney has dealt with the tariffs.

Vancouver, BC [October 1, 2026] – The proportion of Canadians who are actively shunning American products has increased slightly since the start of the summer. a new Research Co. poll has found.

In the online survey of a representative national sample, 58% of Canadians say they are avoiding goods originated from the United States, if a non-American alternative is available, up three points since a similar Research Co. poll conducted in June.

“Active evasion of American products in Canada is highest among Canadians aged 55 and over (70%),” says Mario Canseco, President of Research Co. “Fewer Canadians aged 35-to-54 (54%) and aged 18-to-34 (50%) are taking the same course of action.”

More than seven-in-ten Canadians who voted for the Liberal Party (71%) or the New Democratic Party (NDP) (76%) in last year’s federal election are eschewing American goods. The proportion drops to 46% among Canadians who cast ballots for Conservative Party candidates in 2025.

A third of Canadians (33%, +6) say they are avoiding American restaurant franchises in Canada, while just under three-in-ten have cancelled a planned trip to the United States (29%, -3) or avoided American entertainment options (28%, +3).

Three-in-four Canadians (75%, +7) are following news related to the tariffs dispute with the United States “very closely” or “moderately closely”.

Despite the increase in attention to the issue, there is little change in the expectations of Canadians. About two-in-five (38%, +1) expect the tariffs on Canadian products to be expanded by the U.S. government in the next six months, while just over three-in-ten (31%, =) think the tariffs will be rescinded.

As was the case in June, more than four-in-five Canadians (82%, =) consider the American tariffs as a threat to Canada, while 43% (-7) deem the United States as a military threat to Canada right now.

Almost two thirds of Canadians (65%, +5) approve of the way Prime Minister Mark Carney has dealt with the tariffs, while just over two-in-five (41%, +1) feel the same way about Conservative Party leader Pierre Poilievre.

Fewer than two-in-five Canadians (39%, -3) believe a Conservative federal government would be better positioned right now to manage the dispute over tariffs with the United States, while almost half (47%, =) disagree with this view.

Just over half of Canadians (51%, +5) approve of the way their premier has handled the dispute over tariffs. Among the four most populous provinces, satisfaction is highest in British Columbia (56%, +5), followed by Ontario (54%, +3), Quebec (50%, +5) and Alberta (32%, -4).

Just over a third of Canadians (35%, +2) approve of the way the Official Opposition leader in their province is dealing with the tariffs implemented by the United States. The highest numbers are observed in Ontario (39%, +1), followed by Quebec (34%, -3), Alberta (32%, +8) and British Columbia (31%, +6).

Just over three-in-five Canadians (61%, +2) say it is time consider enhancing trade with China and larger proportions feel the same way about commerce with Mexico (75%, +1), Japan (76%, +5), Australia and New Zealand (77%, +3), the United Kingdom (also 77%, +1) and the European Union (EU) (also 77%, +1).

More than half of Canadians (53%, +3) would seriously consider initiating a formal process for Canada to join the EU. Support for this new relationship with the continental block reaches 64% among Liberal voters and 60% among NDP voters, but only 42% among Conservative voters.

The appetite for seriously pondering a formal process for Canada to become an American state remains stagnant (20%, =).

A majority of Canadians (55%, -4) believe Canada should consider requesting an independent dispute settlement panel under the terms of the Canada–United States–Mexico Agreement (CUSMA).

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

Perceptions on Artificial Intelligence Sour Across Canada

September 24, 2026September 23, 2026By Mario Canseco

More than seven-in-ten Canadians call for either a slowdown (51%) or the abandonment (18%) of the technology.

Vancouver, BC [September 24, 2026] – Negative views on artificial intelligence (AI) have increased in Canada in the past year, a new Research Co. poll has found.

In the online survey of a representative national sample, three-in-five Canadians (60%, up 10 points since a similar Research Co. poll conducted in July 2025) think AI is a threat to humanity, while fewer than one third (31%, -6) consider it an opportunity.

As was the case last year, Canadians aged 35-to-54 are the least likely to regard AI as a threat (44%, -2) compared to their counterparts aged 18-to-34 (60%, +7) and aged 55 and over (63%, +12).

Just over half of Canadians (51%, +2) would like to slow down the development of AI, while one-in-five (20%, -4) believe the technology should continue to be developed as quickly as possible. The proportion of Canadians who would prefer to abandon the development of AI altogether grew from 13% in 2025 to 18% this year.

More than three-in-five Canadians (63%, +7) have followed news stories about AI “very closely” or “moderately closely” over the past 12 months—including 70% of Canadians aged 18-to-34, 70% of Quebecers and 74% of Canadians in the highest household income bracket.

More than four-in-five Canadians are worried about AI leading to less intelligent students at schools of universities (82%, +3) and AI taking over jobs currently performed by humans (also 82%, +3), while just under three-in-four are concerned about AI causing an event that leads to the loss of human life (74%, +3).

The level of concern is also high on other questions. Just over four-in-five Canadians are worried about AI confusing people about the position of political candidates through “deep fake” videos (82%), AI taking over their own identity through “deep fake” videos (81%) and the cost and energy demands of Artificial Intelligence (AI) data centres (specialized large-scale warehouse facilities equipped with advanced graphic processors designed to train and run AI models) (also 81%).

More than seven-in-ten Canadians are also concerned about AI scraping websites and datasets to extract information and photos (78%) and AI bots removing funds from their bank account (74%).

Just over three-in-five Canadians sometimes think it is hopeless to protect themselves against AI-related intrusions (61%) and think AI will negatively impact them, or someone in their family, in the future (62%).

“Two thirds of Canadian women (67%) foresee Artificial Intelligence having a negative impact on themselves or their families,” says Mario Canseco, President of Research Co. “Just under three-in-five Canadian men (58%) share this view.”

Large proportions of Canadians admit they are having harder time trusting the images they see online because they could be AI-generated and not real (80%) and having a harder time trusting the information they see online because it could be AI-generated and not verified reporting (77%).

Canadians continue to place the highest level of trust for the development and management of AI on doctors and nurses (59%, -2) and universities (56%, +2), followed by the federal government (45%, +7) and provincial governments (43%, +5). The confidence rating is lower for tech executives (38%, -2), international governments (33%, +4) and business executives and CEOs (31%, +1).

Almost three-in-five Canadians (59%) have relied on or used AI—such as ChatGPT, Claude, Google Gemini or Grok—in the past month.

Canadian AI users are primarily focused on writing and editing (40%), translation (33%) and image creation and image modification (31%). Fewer are relying on AI for trip planning (25%), task planning (23%), meal planning (22%), exercise and workout planning (21%), note organization (19%), home design (17%) or coding (9%).

Methodology: Results are based on an online survey conducted from September 10 to September 12, 2026, among 1,008 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.

East/West Divide Clear as Canadians Assess Noise Around Them

September 17, 2026September 16, 2026By Mario Canseco

Vehicles and dogs are the most likely nuisances to disturb Canadians at home.

Vancouver, BC [September 17, 2026] – While the proportion of Canadians who have been disturbed by specific nuisances at home is lower than in 2025, there are some significant differences between Eastern and Western provinces, a new Research Co. poll has found.

In the online survey of a representative national sample, 56% of Canadians think their city or town is noisier now than last year, down seven points since a similar Research Co. poll conducted in June 2025.

“Compared to 2025, fewer Canadians believe their municipality has become noisier,” says Mario Canseco, President of Research Co. “The reductions are more pronounced in the East than in the West.”

More than two thirds of British Columbians (65%, -5) and Albertans (61%, -3) report living in a noisier city or town. The proportions are lower in Ontario (56%, -11), Saskatchewan and Manitoba (55%, -6), Atlantic Canada (50%, -11) and Quebec (47%, -9).

Fewer than two-in-five Canadians say their street (39%, -7) or their home (33%, -2) have become noisier since 2025.

Over the past year, more than three-in-ten Canadians were bothered at home by unnecessary noise from vehicles (such as motorcycles and cars revving up) (34%, -5) or dogs barking (32%, -3).

At least one-in-five Canadians were bothered by seven other nuisances while at home: construction-related noises (such as roofing, land clearing and heavy machinery) (26%, -7), a car alarm (25%, -9), loud people outside their home (24%, -4), yelling or screaming at a nearby home (21%, -3), power tools (such as electric saws and sanders) (20%, -4), drivers honking the horn excessively (also 20%, -2) or loud music playing inside a vehicle (also 20%, -4).

Fewer Canadians report being exposed to other noises at home, such as fireworks (19%, -1), yard work (such as lawnmowers and leaf blowers) (also 19%, -7), loud music at a nearby home (18%, -3), a loud gathering or party at a nearby home (16%, -5), a home alarm (11%, -1) or cats meowing (6%, -2).

Practically two-in-five British Columbians (39%) were bothered by construction-related noises at home in the past year. No other region reaches 30% on this indicator.

Unnecessary noise from vehicles outside their home affected 40% of Albertans, 39% of British Columbians and 39% of Ontarians in the past year.

Dogs barking is the main nuisance reported by residents of Atlantic Canada (35%) and Saskatchewan and Manitoba (29%).

Just under one-in-five Canadians (18%, +1) wore earplugs to mitigate noise while inside their homes in the past year. Fewer Canadians acquired hardware, such as noise cancelling headphones or earphones (13%, +2), reported noise concerns to the police (9%, +1) or moved away from their previous home because of noise (7%, +1).

Methodology: Results are based on an online survey conducted from August 31 to September 2, 2026, among 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.

Carney Extends Lead on Economic Management in Canada

September 10, 2026September 10, 2026By Mario Canseco

Just under three-in-five Canadians rate the country’s economic conditions as “poor” or “very poor”.

Vancouver, BC [September 10, 2026] – The gap between Canada’s prime minister and the leader of the Official Opposition on financial matters has grown over the past seven months, a new Research Co. poll has found.

In the online survey of a representative national sample, 59% of Canadians say they trust Mark Carney to do the right thing to help the economy, up six points since a similar Research Co. poll conducted in February.

Fewer than two-in-five Canadians (38%, -2) trust Pierre Poilievre to do the right thing to help the economy. The rating is slightly higher for Governor of the Bank of Canada Tiff Macklem (40%, +2).

Majorities of Canadians aged 18-to-34 (53%), aged 35-to-54 (57%) and aged 55 and over (66%) express confidence in Carney’s economic management. Poilievre does best with Canadians aged 18-to-34 (46%) but drops markedly among Canadians aged 35-to-54 (38%) and aged 55 and over (29%).

About three-in-five Canadians (59%, -1) rate the economic conditions in Canada today as “poor” or “very poor”, while 36% (+1) deem them “very good” or “good”.

Just over one-in-four Albertans (27%, -9) think Canada’s financial standing is currently “very good” or “good”. The proportions are higher in Ontario (35%, +2), British Columbia (also 35%, +1), Atlantic Canada (36%, +4), Quebec (39%, +1) and Saskatchewan and Manitoba (46%, +14).

More than three-in-ten Canadians (31%, -4) think the Canadian economy will decline over the next six months, while 44% (+3) foresee no changes and 17% (+2) predict an improvement.

There is little fluctuation on the question related to household finances, with 51% of Canadians (+2) describing their own situation as “very good” or “good” (51%, +2) while 44% (-2) consider it “poor” or “very poor”.

Two thirds of Canadians who voted for the Liberal Party in last year’s federal election (66%) provide a positive assessment of their own financial standing. The proportions are lower among those who cast ballots for candidates representing the Conservative Party (50%) and the New Democratic Party (NDP) (35%).

More than half of Canadians expect to pay more for a week’s worth of groceries (75%, =), gasoline (also 75%, +18), a new car (63%, -2), a new television set (53%, +3) and real estate (51%, +3) in the next six months.

“Most Canadians aged 18-to-34 (57%) foresee higher real estate prices in the next six months,” says Mario Canseco, President of Research Co. “The proportions are lower among their counterparts aged 35-to-54 (50%) and aged 55 and over (45%).”

A third of Canadians (34%, +1) say they have worried “frequently” or “occasionally” in the past couple of months about their employer running into serious financial trouble.

Larger proportions of Canadians—but short of a majority—have been concerned about unemployment affecting their household (38%, -2), being able to pay their mortgage or rent (39%, -3), the value of their investments (44%, -4) or the safety of their savings (45%, -3).

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

Canadians Still Divided When Assessing Fairness in Justice System

September 3, 2026September 2, 2026By Mario Canseco

Public support for alternative penalties in lieu of prison time for offenders is lower than three years ago.

Vancouver, BC [September 3, 2026] – Canadians remain evenly split when pondering the impartiality of the justice system, a new Research Co. poll has found.

In the online survey of a representative national sample, 44% of Canadians think that the justice system in Canada treats every person fairly, while 43% disagree and 13% are undecided.

The results show little fluctuation from a previous Research Co, poll conducted in April 2023.

“There is a discernible gender gap when Canadians review the justice system,” says Mario Canseco, President of Research Co. “While half of men (50%) think it treats every person fairly, only 40% of women concur.”

Just over half of Quebecers (51%) say the justice system in Canada treats every person fairly. The proportions are lower in Ontario (44%), Saskatchewan and Manitoba (42%), British Columbia (41%), Alberta (also 41%) and Atlantic Canada (37%).

Majorities of Canadians whose origins are South Asian (63%) or East Asian (51%) think the justice system in Canada treats every person fairly. Fewer Canadians whose descent is European (41%) or Indigenous (30%) share this view.

More than half of Canadians (54%, -2) think Canada’s criminal courts do a good job in determining whether or not an accused person is guilty—a proportion that rises to 58% among men and to 56% among Canadians aged 55 and over.

More than a third of Canadians (38%, +1) believe Canada’s prison system does a good job in helping prisoners become law-abiding, including 44% of those aged 18-to-34.

Respondents to this survey were asked about the use of alternative penalties—such as fines, probation or community service—rather than prison for specific offences.

Fewer than one-in-four Canadians (22%, -3) are in favour of relying on alternative penalties after an arson conviction, and just under a third (32%, -6) would consent to their use as punishment for drunk driving offences.

More Canadians—but short of a majority—support alternative penalties in cases of online harassment or cyberbullying (40%, -5) and credit card fraud (43%, -3).

The survey also asked Canadians about the Youth Criminal Justice Act, which governs the application of criminal and correctional law to people who have committed an offence between the ages of 12 and 18.

More than seven-in-ten Canadians (72%, +3) agree with having the possibility of finding parents in contempt of court if they do not attend hearings or participate in the legal process.

About two thirds of Canadians agree with two other elements of the Youth Criminal Justice Act: allowing non-violent, first-time offenders who are unlikely to re-offend to avoid trial in youth justice court by taking part in programs of extrajudicial sanctions (67%, -2) and disclosing the identity of the youths who have been charged only under special circumstances (65%, -2).

Canadians are divided when assessing the provision establishing that no person can be convicted of an offence while he or she is under the age of 12 years, with 43% (-5) agreeing with it and 44% (+5) disagreeing.

Methodology: Results are based on an online survey conducted from August 17 to August 19, 2026, among 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.

Confidence in RCMP Operations and Leadership Grows in Canada

August 27, 2026August 26, 2026By Mario Canseco

Fewer than three-in-five Canadians are satisfied with the criminal courts in their province.

Vancouver, BC [August 27, 2026] – The perceptions of Canadians on the national police service have become more positive over the past three years, a new Research Co. poll has found.

In the online survey of a representative national sample, 70% of Canadians say they have confidence in the internal operations and leadership of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), up six points since a similar Research Co. poll conducted in June 2023.

About two thirds of Canadians also express confidence in the internal operations and leadership of two other elements of the Canadian justice system: their municipal police force (66%, -1) and the Supreme Court of Canada (65%, =). The rating is lower for provincial criminal courts (57%, -1).

More than seven-in-ten residents of Saskatchewan and Manitoba (76%, +19). British Columbia (72%, +9) and Ontario (also 72%, +7) have confidence in the internal operations and leadership of the RCMP. The proportions are lower in Alberta (69%, +4), Quebec (68%, =) and Atlantic Canada (56%, -4).

Just over three-in-five Canadians (61%, +7) say their confidence in the internal operations and leadership of the RCMP has stayed the same over the past five years. One-in-five (20%, -6) say their confidence has decreased, while one-in-ten (10%, -2) report an increase.

The survey also asked Canadians to state whether the police officers who operate in their community possess five characteristics.

At least two thirds of Canadians say these police officers are approachable (70%, +1) respond to calls promptly (66%, -2) and can be trusted (also 66%, +2). Slightly fewer also think the police officers who operate in their community are a source of pride (58%, +1) and treat every person fairly (54%, +4).

“Only 49% of Canadians aged 18-to-34 regard police officers as a source of pride,” says Mario Canseco. President of Research Co. “The proportions are a higher among those aged 35-to-54 (56%) and those aged 55 and over (70%).”

Fewer than half of Atlantic Canadians (46%, +3) and Albertans (also 46%, -12) believe police officers treat every person fairly. The ratings is higher in British Columbia (53%, +1), Saskatchewan and Manitoba (54%, +5), Quebec (56%, +8) and Ontario (57%, +8).

Only 38% of Canadians of Indigenous descent (-10) the police officers who operate in their community treat every person fairly, compared to majorities of Canadians whose heritage is European (53%, +4), East Asian (57%, +6) or South Asian (58%, -3).

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

Long Wait Times Rise as Health Care Concern Across Canada

August 20, 2026August 17, 2026By Mario Canseco

Seven-in-ten Canadians express confidence in the health care system being there to provide help and assistance.

Vancouver, BC [August 20, 2026] – Canadians identify two main setbacks when assessing the health care system right now, a new Research Co. poll has found.

In the online survey of a representative national sample, 31% of Canadians (-4 since a similar Research Co. poll conducted in May 2025) say a shortage of doctors and nurses is the biggest problem facing the health care system, while 28% (+5) cite long wait times.

Bureaucracy and poor management is third on the list of concerns with 12% (-4), followed by inadequate resources and facilities with 11% (+2).

Fewer Canadians are primarily worried about a reduced focus on preventive care (7%, +2), a lack of a wider range of services for patients (4%, -2) and insufficient standards of hygiene (3%, +1).

More than half of Canadians (55%, +1) believe there are some good things in Canada’s health care system, but many changes are required.

One-in-five Canadians (20%, -3) believe Canada’s health care system works well, and only minor changes are needed to make it work better, while the same proportion (20%, +3) feel Canada’s health care system has so much wrong with it that we need to completely rebuild it.

The notion of a full overhaul of Canada’s health care system is more popular in Atlantic Canada (30%) and Saskatchewan and Manitoba (26%).

Seven-in-ten Canadians (70%, -1) are “very confident” or “moderately confident” that Canada’s health care system would be there to provide the help and assistance that they would need if they had to face an unexpected medical condition or disease.

Confidence in the availability of medical services at a time of need is higher among Canadians aged 55 and over (74%, =) than among their counterparts aged 18-to-34 (69%, -1) and aged 35-to-54 (67%, -2).

Only 20% of Canadians (-4) believe the federal government should make cuts to health care funding in order to reduce government debt, while 72% (+1) disagree with this idea.

Majorities of Canadians who voted for the Liberal Party (77%), the New Democratic Party (NDP) (69%) or the Conservative Party (64%) in the April 2025 federal election disagree with enacting cuts to health care funding.

More than a third of Canadians (37%, +1) believe health care in Canada would be better than it is now if it were run by the private sector, while almost half (49%, +1) reject this notion.

“More than two-in-five men in Canada (43%) believe that Canada’s health care system would improve in the hands of the private sector,” says Mario Canseco, President of Research Co. “Only 30% of Canadian women concur.”

Just over half of Conservative voters in the last federal election (51%) think health care in Canada would be better than it is now if it were run by the private sector—a view shared by 34% of those who cast ballots for the Liberals or the New Democrats.

Methodology: Results are based on an online survey conducted from August 5 to August 7, 2026, 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 +/- 3.1 percentage points, nineteen times out of twenty.

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

Canadian Liberals Enjoy 20-Point Lead Over Rival Conservatives

August 10, 2026November 11, 2026By Mario Canseco

Mark Carney has a 23-point advantage over Pierre Poilievre when Canadians ponder who would make the best prime minister.

Vancouver, BC [August 10, 2026] – The governing Liberal Party is enjoying its largest lead in Canada since the April 2025 federal election, a new Research Co. poll has found.

In the online survey of a representative national sample, 47% of decided voters across Canada would support the Liberal candidate in their constituency in a federal election, up one point since a similar Research Co. poll conducted in May.

The Conservative Party remains in second place with 27% (-4), followed by the New Democratic Party (NDP) with 10% (-1), the Bloc Québécois with 6% (-1), the Green Party with 5% (+2), the People’s Party with 4% (+3) and other parties and independent candidates with 1% (=).

“More than half of female decided voters in Canada (51%) are supporting the Liberal Party,” says Mario Canseco, President of Research Co. “The governing party is also ahead among male decided voters (43%).”

The Liberals lead the Conservatives among Generation Z (36% to 28%) and Millennials (37% to 30%). The advantage for the governing party is larger among Generation X (50% to 29%) and Baby Boomers (63% to 16%).

More than two-in-five decided voters in British Columbia (45%), Ontario (46%), Quebec (49%) and Atlantic Canada (56%) would cast a ballot for Liberal candidates. The Conservatives have a six-point lead in Alberta (42% to 36%).

Almost three-in-five Canadians (59%, +3) approve of the way Prime Minister and Liberal leader Mark Carney is managing his duties. The approval rating is lower for Conservative and Official Opposition leader Pierre Poilievre (38%, =), Green leader Elizabeth May (37%, +5), NDP leader Avi Lewis (32%, +1), Bloc leader Yves-François Blanchet (28%, +3) and People’s Party leader Maxime Bernier (22%, +2).

On the “Preferred Prime Minister” question, Carney holds a 23-point lead over Poilievre (45% to 22%), with the remaining federal party leaders in single digits.

The economy and jobs remains the most important issue facing the country for Canadians (25%, +3), followed by housing, homelessness and poverty (23%, +3), health care (14%, -1), Canada-U.S. Relations (12%, -4) and immigration (9%, +1).

As was the case in May, Canadians pick Carney over Poilievre to manage 11 different issues.

At least two-in-five Canadians prefer the current prime minister over the leader of the Official Opposition to handle foreign affairs (51% to 23%), Canada-U.S. Relations (50% to 23%), national unity (48% to 24%), accountability and leadership (47% to 25%), the economy and jobs (46% to 27%), health care (44% to 25%), energy and pipelines (43% to 27%), the environment (41% to 22%), immigration (40% to 29%), and housing, homelessness and poverty (40% to 26%).

The race is closer—albeit with Carney still ahead of Poilievre—on crime and public safety (37% to 30%).

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

Albertans and Canadians at Odds Over Non-Binding Referendum

July 30, 2026July 30, 2026By Mario Canseco

More than three-in-five Canadians think the federal government should not allow Alberta’s separation to happen.

Vancouver, BC [July 30, 2026] – While Canadians are split when assessing the possible outcome of Alberta’s non-binding referendum on separation, half of Albertans expect it to usher in a binding vote in the future, a new Research Co. poll has found.

A non-binding provincial referendum has been set for October 19, 2026, in Alberta. One of the questions in this referendum asks: “Should Alberta remain a province in Canada, or should the Government of Alberta commence the legal process required under the Canadian Constitution to hold a binding provincial referendum on whether or not Alberta should separate from Canada?”

In the online survey of a representative national sample, Canadians are divided on whether voters in Alberta will choose to hold a binding provincial referendum on separation from Canada: 40% think a victory for the “leave” side on the non-binding referendum is “very likely” or “moderately likely”, while 41% consider this possibility “not too likely” or “not likely at all.”

In Alberta, half of respondents (50%) expect voters to compel a binding independence referendum at a later date, while 30% do not expect this scenario to materialize.

Three-in-ten Canadians (30%, -15 since a similar Research Co. poll conducted in June 2025) believe the United States will take steps to annex Alberta as an American state—a view shared by 24% of Albertans (-22).

One third of Canadians (33%) think it is “likely” that the United States will recognize Alberta’s sovereignty if a majority of voters choose to hold a binding provincial referendum on whether or not Alberta should separate from Canada, while a smaller proportion (28%) predict a similar situation even if a majority of voters reject holding a binding provincial referendum.

Albertans are less likely to expect a recognition of sovereignty from the United States, regardless of whether the “leave” (26%) or “remain” (also 26%) sides emerge victorious in the non-binding referendum.

If voters in Alberta choose to hold a binding provincial referendum on separation, only 28% of Canadians—and 32% of Albertans—think the Government of Canada should ultimately allow Alberta’s separation to happen.

Majorities of Canadians aged 55 and over (68%), aged 18-to-34 (60%) and aged 35-to-54 (55%) think the federal government should ultimately not allow Alberta to secede.

“More than seven-in-ten Canadians who voted for the Liberal Party in 2025 would welcome federal intervention to stop Alberta’s separation,” says Mario Canseco, President of Research Co. “They are joined by majorities of voters who backed the Conservative Party (56%) or the New Democratic Party (NDP) (also 56%) in the last federal election.

Public confidence across Canada on all political leaders on the issue of national unity is down significantly from June 2025. Just over three-in-five Canadians (61%, -6) trust the Prime Minister of Canada to make the best decisions on this file. The rating is lower for provincial premiers (51%, -8), provincial leaders of the Official Opposition (44%, -7) and the leader of the Official Opposition in Canada (43%, -8).

In Alberta, the rating is highest for the leader of the Official Opposition in Canada (50%, -6), followed by the Prime Minister (48%, -10), the provincial premier (46%, -9) and the provincial leader of the Official Opposition (40%, -13).

Only one-in-five Canadians (20%, =) think Canada would be better off as an American state, while 21% (=) believe their own province would be better off joining the United States and 28% (-1) say their province would be better off as its own country.

In a separate question, one-in-five Canadians (20%, +1) say they would vote in favour of Canada becoming an American state. Slightly fewer (18%, -1) would cast a ballot for their province to join the United States, while just under one-in-four (24%, -4) would vote for their province to become independent from Canada.

One third of Albertans (33%, -1) say they would vote in favour of their province becoming its own country, while 50% (-12) would vote against this idea and 17% (+12) are undecided.

Methodology: Results are based on an online survey conducted from July 20 to July 22, 2026, 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.

Bans on Single-Use Plastics Endorsed by Majorities of Canadians

July 16, 2026July 16, 2026By Mario Canseco

More than half say they are using fewer plastic products in their daily lives now than five years ago.

Vancouver, BC [July 16, 2026] – The federal government’s decision to implement a ban on the manufacture, import, and sale of six specific categories of single-use plastics is backed by most Canadians, a new Research Co. poll has found.

In the online survey of a representative national sample, three-in-five Canadians (60%) support banning flexible plastic rings for beverage six-packs.

Majorities of Canadians are also in favour of the prohibitions that are currently in place for five other categories of single-use plastics: plastic stir sticks (59%), plastic checkout bags (58%), plastic foodservice ware (such as clamshells, lidded containers, boxes, cups, plates, and bowls) (56%), single-use plastic straws (with specific exemptions for medical and accessibility needs) (also 56%) and plastic cutlery (52%).

The survey also asked Canadians how often they transport groceries out of a store using their own re-usable bag. Across the country, the average answer is 84%.

“Canadians aged 55 and over are the most likely to rely on reusable bags when purchasing groceries (92%),” says Mario Canseco, President of Research Co. “The proportions are lower among their counterparts aged 35-to-54 (84%) and aged 18-to-34 (77%).”

On a regional basis, practically nine-in-ten trips to the grocery store for Albertans (89%) entail a reusable bag, followed by Atlantic Canada (88%), Quebec (87%), British Columbia (84%), Ontario (82%) and Saskatchewan and Manitoba (78%).

More than half of Canadians (55%) acknowledge that, compared to five years ago, they are using fewer plastic products in their daily lives. Just over three-in-ten (31%) report no change, while fewer than one-in-ten (8%) say they are relying on plastic products more often now than in 2021.

More than three-in-five Canadians (77%) say they go out of their way to recycle (such as holding on to bottles and cans until they can be placed into a proper recycling bin) “all of the time” or “most of the time.”

Most Canadians (55%) say they are limiting hot water usage in their home (such as taking shorter showers, running washing machines or dishwashers with full loads only) “all of the time” or “most of the time.”

Fewer Canadians are partaking in three other behaviours “all of the time” or “most of the time”: unplugging electrical devices in their home (such as TVs, computers, cell phone chargers) when they are not in use (42%), buying biodegradable products (37%) and eating organic or home-grown foods (32%).

Methodology: Results are based on an online survey conducted from June 29 to July 1, 2026, 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.

World Cup Success Vastly Increases Canadian Soccer Fandom

July 9, 2026July 9, 2026By Mario Canseco

Only 14% of Canadians reject the idea of Canadian cities hosting the FIFA World Cup in 2038.

Vancouver, BC [July 9, 2026] – The performance of the Men’s National Team in the 2026 FIFA World Cup has generated more soccer fans in Canada, a new Research Co. poll has found.

In the online survey of a representative national sample, just over one-in-five Canadians (21%) describe themselves as soccer fans who truly enjoy watching the game, up six points since a similar Research Co. poll conducted in December 2022 during the previous FIFA World Cup in Qatar.

One-in-five Canadians (20%, +3) say they watch soccer as much as they can, but do not follow it all the time, while 28% (+1) will watch a soccer match now and then, but it’s not their favourite sport. The proportion of Canadians who do not really care for soccer dropped by nine points since December 2022, from 41% to 32%.

Just over half of Canadians (51%, +13) say they have followed the 2026 FIFA World Cup “very closely” or “moderately closely”—a proportion that rises to 55% among both Ontarians and British Columbians, 56% among men and 59% among Canadians aged 18-to-34.

More than a third of Canadians (36%) watched either the whole match or some parts of the FIFA World Cup match between Canada and Bosnia and Herzegovina. Larger proportions of Canadians watched the entire contest—or parts of it—when Canada played against Qatar (40%), Switzerland (also 40%) and South Africa (43%).

“During Canada’s participation in Qatar 2022, the average proportion of Canadians who did not even watch match highlights stood at 49%,” says Mario Canseco, President of Research Co. “This year, this average is nine points lower at 40%.”

Across the country, more than a third of Canadians (35%, +11) acknowledge being more interested in Canada’s national team than before its participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup—including 40% of men, 42% of British Columbians and 46% of Canadians aged 18-to-34.

Only 6% of Canadians (-3) say they are less interested in the Men’s National Team now, while 46% (-5) say their interest has not changed as a result of this year’s World Cup.

Just over two thirds of Canadians (67%) would like to see Canada take part in hosting the 2038 FIFA World Cup, either with the two cities that hosted matches during the 2026 edition (Vancouver and Toronto) (30%) or adding more Canadian cities to host matches (37%). Only 14% of Canadians think Canada should not bid to host this tournament.

Three-in-five Canadians (60%) and 88% of self-described “big soccer fans” welcome FIFA’s decision to increase the number of participating national teams in the World Cup, from 32 to 48.

Most of Canada’s “big soccer fans” also regard recent rule changes positively, including:

Goalkeepers having eight seconds to release the ball (83%)
Video Assistant Referees reviewing second yellow cards (also 83%)
Referees initiating a five-second countdown for throw-ins and goal kicks (82%)
Players having 10 seconds to leave the pitch at the nearest boundary line when substituted (also 82%)
Video Assistant Referees reviewing and overturning incorrectly awarded corner kicks (82%)
Having mandatory hydration breaks during each half (76%)
Players automatically receiving a red card if they cover their mouths with hands, arms, or shirts in a confrontational or aggressive situation (69%)

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

Canadians and Americans at Odds on Origin of Humans on Earth

July 2, 2026July 1, 2026By Mario Canseco

While more than three-in-five Canadians stand by evolution, fewer than half of Americans share this view.

Vancouver, BC [July 2, 2026] – The perceptions of residents of Canada and the United States on the origin and development of human beings on earth are decidedly different, a new two-country Research Co. poll has found.

In the online survey of representative national samples, only one-in-five Canadians (20%, -3 since a similar Research Co. poll conducted in October 2025) think God created human beings in their present form within the last 10,000 years.

In the United States, just under two-in-five Americans (39%) agree with this assessment that favours creationism over evolution.

Conversely, just under half of Americans (47%) and more than three-in-five Canadians (62%, +1) believe human beings evolved from less advanced life forms over millions of years.

Majorities of Canadians who supported any of the country’s three main parties in the 2025 federal election agree with evolution: 79% of New Democratic Party (NDP) voters, 72% of Liberal Party voters and 53% of Conservative Party voters.

In the United States, more than half of Democrats (57%) think human beings evolved from less advanced life forms over millions of years. Fewer Independents (47%) and Republicans (39%) concur.

A second question on whether creationism—the belief that the universe and life originated from specific acts of divine creation—should be part of the school curriculum in a Canadian province or an American state also yielded contrasting results.

Canadians are almost evenly divided, with 42% (-6) thinking creationism has a place in the classroom, and 41% (+6) disagreeing with this view.

In the United States, respondents are more likely to welcome the teaching of creationism at school (51%) than to reject it (32%).

In Canada, only 34% of residents aged 55 and over are in favour of creationism being part of the school curriculum in their province. The proportions are larger among Canadians aged 18 to 34 (46%) and aged 35 to 54 (also 46%).

In the United States, majorities of Americans aged 55 and over (55%) and aged 18-to-34 (52%) agree with teaching creationism in their state’s schools. Fewer than half of Americans aged 35-to-54 (46%) hold the same opinion.

Methodology: Results are based on an online survey conducted from June 4 to June 6, 2026, among 1,001 adults in Canada and 1,012 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.

Canadians Particularly Proud of Flag, Hockey and Armed Forces

June 25, 2026June 24, 2026By Mario Canseco

Pride in the Canadian economy improves, but opposition voters are not as buoyant as those who backed the Liberal Party in 2025.

Vancouver, BC [June 25, 2026] – The proportion of Canadians who express pride in specific institutions and features of the country has increased markedly since 2025, a new Research Co. poll has found.

In the online survey of a representative national sample, four-in-five Canadians (80%, +1 since a similar Research Co. poll conducted in June 2025) say the flag makes them proud.

Six other institutions and features elicit feelings of pride among more than three-in-five Canadians: hockey (75%, +3), the Canadian Armed Forces (74%, +8), multiculturalism (65%, +2), Indigenous culture (64%, +3), the state of democracy in Canada (62%, +4) and bilingualism (61%, =).

More than half of Canadians say they are proud of the health care system (58%, +5), Parliament (53%, +5) and the Canadian justice system (also 53%, +4).

Only two of the 12 institutions and features tested are below the 50% threshold on eliciting feelings of pride among Canadians: the Canadian economy (46%, +6) and the monarchy (41%, +2).

The growth in feelings of pride towards the Canadian Armed Forces is driven primarily by respondents in British Columbia (82%), Alberta (81%) and Ontario (78%). The proportions are lower in Quebec (66%), Saskatchewan and Manitoba (65%) and Atlantic Canada (64%).

More than four-in-five Canadians of East Asian descent (81%) say they are proud of multiculturalism. Smaller majorities of Canadians whose heritage is South Asian (68%), European (62%) and Indigenous (57%) share the same view.

The state of democracy in Canada is a source of pride for more than four-in-five Canadians who voted for the Liberal Party in the 2025 federal election (83%). The proportion drops to 60% among those who supported the New Democratic Party (NDP) and to 48% among those who voted for the Conservative Party.

Just over two thirds of British Columbians (67%) say the health care system makes them proud. The results are lower in Alberta (60%), Ontario (also 60%), Saskatchewan and Manitoba (54%), Quebec (52%) and Atlantic Canada (46%).

“There is deep disappointment among opposition voters when assessing the Canadian economy,” says Mario Canseco, President of Research Co. “While 61% of Liberal voters say it is a source of pride, only 38% of Conservatives and 33% of New Democrats feel the same way.”

Pride in the monarchy is highest among Canadians aged 18-to-34 (46%) and falls among Canadians aged 35-to-543 (42%) and aged 55 and over (37%).

Methodology: Results are based on an online survey conducted from June 14 to June 16, 2026, 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.

Support for Return of Death Penalty Rises Markedly in Canada

June 18, 2026June 17, 2026By Mario Canseco

More than half of supporters of capital punishment (52%) think it would serve as a deterrent for potential murderers.

Vancouver, BC [June 18, 2026] – By a 2-to-1 margin, Canadians are more likely to support the return of the death penalty than to maintain the status quo in murder cases, a new Research Co. poll has found.

In the online survey of a representative national sample, 60% of Canadians (+6 since a similar Research Co. poll conducted in February 2025) support reinstating the death penalty for murder in Canada, while 30% (-2) are opposed.

Canada eliminated the death penalty for murder in July 1976.

Half of Quebecers (50%, +5) favour the return of capital punishment in murder cases. The proportions are higher in Atlantic Canada (55%, -5), Ontario (62%, +7), Alberta (65%, +6), British Columbia (67%, +8) and Saskatchewan and Manitoba (also 67%, +13).

Two thirds of Canadians who oppose the death penalty (66%, +5) are worried about a person being wrongly convicted and then executed, while almost half (49%, +9) believe murderers should serve their time in prison, as indicated by a judge.

Fewer opponents cite other problems with the return of capital punishment, such as doubting that it would serve as a deterrent (39%, +3), feeling that taking a convicted murderer’s own life is wrong (35%, -6), and stating that murderers can be rehabilitated (18%, =).

A majority of Canadians who support the return of the death penalty say a convicted murderer has taken a life, so the punishment fits the crime (56%, +7) and think it will serve as a deterrent for potential murderers (52%, =).

Fewer supporters of capital punishment cite other reasons for their position, including closure to the families of murder victims (49%, +7), saving taxpayers money and the costs associated with having murderers in prison (46%, =) and a belief that murderers cannot be rehabilitated (31%, +5).

More than half of Canadians (56%, +3) think capital punishment is “sometimes appropriate”, while just under one-in-four (23%, -1) say it is “never” appropriate and 14% (=) consider it “always” appropriate.

A separate question asked Canadians to choose between two different approaches to deal with murder convictions in Canada. Just under half (49%, -4) select life imprisonment without the possibility of parole, while just under two-in-five (39%, +4) choose the death penalty.

In this question, almost half of Albertans (48%, +9) express a preference for the death penalty over life imprisonment after a murder conviction. The proportions are lower in Ontario (40%, +3), British Columbia (also 40%, +2), Quebec (37%, +11), Saskatchewan and Manitoba (36%, -1) and Atlantic Canada (31%, -7).

“The political divide on how to deal with murder cases in Canada is staggering,” says Mario Canseco, President of Research Co. “While majorities of Canadians who voted for the Liberals or the New Democrats in 2025 (57% and 65% respectively) would maintain life imprisonment without parole, most Conservatives (54%) would bring back the death penalty.”

Respondents of East Asian descent are more likely to prefer the death penalty over life imprisonment for murder convictions (48%) than those whose heritage is European (39%), South Asian (also 39%) or Indigenous (33%).

Methodology: Results are based on an online survey conducted from June 4 to June 6, 2026, 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.

Canadians Ponder Trade with China, Joining European Union

June 11, 2026June 10, 2026By Mario Canseco

More than two thirds of Canadians are closely following news related to the tariffs dispute with the United States.

Vancouver, BC [June 11, 2026] – The ongoing dispute over tariffs with the United States has made other international markets more attractive to Canadians, a new Research Co. poll has found.

In the online survey of a representative national sample, 59% of Canadians think Canada should seriously consider enhancing trade with China, while 28% disagree and 13% are not sure.

More than seven-in-ten Canadians are in favour of enhancing trade with other countries and groups, such as Japan (71%, -6 since a similar Research Co. poll conducted in February), Mexico (74%, +1), Australia and New Zealand (also 74%, -3), the United Kingdom (76%, -1) and the European Union (EU) (also 76%, -1).

Half of Canadians (50%, +2) would seriously consider initiating a formal process for Canada to join the European Union, while only 20% (=) think it is time to seriously ponder a formal process for Canada to become an American state.

Almost three-in-five Canadians (59%, +3) want Canada to seriously consider requesting an independent dispute settlement panel under the terms of the Canada–United States–Mexico Agreement (CUSMA).

More than two thirds of Canadians (68%, +2) are “very closely” or “moderately closely” following news related to the tariffs dispute with the United States.

More than a third of Canadians (37%, -9) think the tariffs on Canadian products will be expanded by the U.S. government in the next six months, while a slightly smaller proportion (31%, +11) believe the tariffs will be rescinded.

There is little change in the purchasing behaviour of Canadians when it comes to American products. A majority (55%, =) continue to avoid buying goods originated from the United States, if a non-American alternative is available.

About a third of Canadians (32%, -2) have cancelled a planned trip to the United States, while fewer are not relying on American restaurant franchises in Canada (27%, -6) or American entertainment options (25%, =).

More than four-in-five Canadians (82%, +6) continue to deem the American tariffs as a threat to Canada, while half (50%, -3) believe the United States is a military threat to Canada at this point.

Three-in-five Canadians (60%, +3) are satisfied with how Prime Minister Mark Carney has managed the tariffs dispute, while two-in-five (40%, +10) approve of the way Conservative Party leader Pierre Poilievre has handled this matter.

“There is a significant difference when Canadians aged 55 and over evaluate the performance of two key federal politicians on tariffs,” says Mario Canseco, President of Research Co. “While 69% are satisfied with Carney, only 30% feel the same way about Poilievre.”

More than two-in-five Canadians (42%, +7) think a Conservative federal government would be better positioned at this point to deal with the tariffs implemented by the United States, while almost half (47%, -7) disagree with this assessment.

Fewer than half of Canadians (46%, -8) approve of the way their premier has managed the tariffs dispute. Among the four most populous provinces, the rating is highest in Ontario (51%, +6) and British Columbia (also 51%, -8), followed by Quebec (45%, +3) and Alberta (36%, =).

One third of Canadians (33%, +2) are satisfied with how the Official Opposition leader in their province is managing this file. The numbers are highest in Ontario (38%, +5), followed by Quebec (37%, +8), British Columbia (25%, +1) and Alberta (24%, -21).

Methodology: Results are based on an online survey conducted from June 1 to June 3, 2026, 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.