With the U.S. election drawing to a dramatic close, the political interests of Canadians are shifting across the border. From potential voting preferences to concerns about trade policies, Canadians are closely watching the race to the Oval Office unfold. A recent survey conducted by Leger shed light on how Canadians would vote if given the chance.
Here are some key takeaways from the survey:
- A majority of Canadian respondents, 64%, expressed their support for vice-president Kamala Harris if they could cast a ballot in the U.S. election.
- Surprisingly, 21% of Canadians would opt for former president Donald Trump, while 15% were undecided.
- The divide among Canadian Conservative voters was evident, with 45% leaning towards Trump and 42% supporting Harris.
- Support for Harris was more pronounced among Canadians 55 and older, Quebecers, and women.
The outcome of the U.S. election holds significant implications for Canada, as the U.S. remains its closest neighbour and largest trading partner. With over 77% of Canadian exports going to the U.S., trade policies from both Republicans and Democrats could have ripple effects on Canada.
Key points related to trade policies include:
- Trump’s proposed 10% tariff could impact Canada’s economy by about $30 billion per year.
- Harris is likely to continue Biden’s approach to tariffs and procurement policies, including Buy American rules.
- Both parties plan to review the Canada-U.S.-Mexico Agreement in 2026.
Moreover, Canadians believe that a Harris victory would be the most favorable outcome for Canada. They perceive Harris as more competent than Trump on various issues, such as climate change, trade relations, immigration, and national security.
Despite a high level of interest in the U.S. election, most Canadians are not keen on watching the election night live. However, they remain invested in the results and the potential impact on their country.
As the U.S. election draws near, Canadians are keeping a close eye on the candidates and their policies. The ensuing results could shape the trajectory of Canada-U.S. relations and trade dynamics in the coming years. Ultimately, the outcomes in the U.S. election will have far-reaching implications across the border.
