Canadians Weigh In: Economy and Trump in the Crosshairs of Campaign Season
On April 28, Canadians will head to the polls to choose a new government amid unparalleled disruption with the United States, where President Donald Trump poses threats to Canada’s economy and autonomy.
This is how voters, many of whom showed worry about the US president, perceived the initial seven days of campaigning between Liberal Prime Minister Mark Carney and his primary opponent, Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre.
Avoid a recession
Monika Wetzel, who works as a health sector policy analyst, has previously supported various political parties and remains undecided about her vote in this upcoming election.
“The presence of Trump isn’t making me particularly happy right now,” stated the 34-year-old resident from Winnipeg, Manitoba, located in the western Canadian Prairie provinces.
It seems like everyone can only talk about Trump these days. His presence is constant and it’s becoming too much for me. I really don’t wish to hear another word about him.
She stated that she expects candidates to offer assurances to Canadians that they will navigate through these challenges successfully. Additionally, she emphasized the importance of maintaining national unity and avoiding an economic downturn.
Economist needed, not politician
Rob Vandertogt serves as an executive residing in Alliston, Ontario, which lies just north of Toronto. This area belongs to the most populated province in Canada.
In his view, the primary concern in this election revolves around economic issues and the United States’ tariffs on goods from Canada.
A 62-year-old voter stated that ‘The Conservatives appear entirely out of touch with reality in this nation. The entire campaign seems to revolve around Donald Trump, while they concentrate on every other issue.’
“He stated that we currently don’t require a politician to steer the nation; instead, we need someone with economic expertise.” Thus, he is endorsing Carney, who previously served as a central bank governor.
Make ends meet
Valerie Orr, an 81-year-old conservative backer, primarily worries about the steep cost of living and feels that Trump’s prominence in the election is not helpful.
She stated to AFP during a Poilievre event in a Toronto suburb that this southern menace has drawn far too much focus.
“Has anyone ever heard of a state as large as Canada? Seriously, let’s be realistic,” she said, commending Poilievre for addressing the difficulties individuals encounter in simply “managing to get through the week.”
‘One-two punch’
Matthew Bishop, aged 27, typically supports the left-leaning New Democratic Party. However, after Carney succeeded Justin Trudeau as both the Prime Minister and leader of the Liberals earlier this month, Bishop decided to change his voting intentions.
The proprietor of a bar in Nanaimo, located in the far-western part of British Columbia, expressed optimism that Carney will be able to revitalize the economy following multiple years during which numerous small enterprises have shut down.
“I believe his background in managing central banks and handling crises makes him well-versed in our current economic conditions,” he stated.
He similarly expects the future prime minister to “retaliate” against US tariffs. “When they impose a tariff on us, we strike back with equal force, hitting them twice.”
Too much like Trump
Nathalie Guibert, residing in a countryside area of Quebec located one and a half hours away from Montreal, has not yet decided on her choice.
The 56-year-old homemaker expressed approval over Mark Carney’s trip to Europe, noting that his stance indicates the United States is no longer our ally and that he is looking for new trade relationships.
I connect Pierre Poilievre with Trump. His aggressive demeanor and his Trump-like approach do not appeal to me.