Canadians back retaliation against U.S. tariffs as 50% levy looms

A majority of Canadians are prepared to see their government retaliate against U.S. tariffs, according to new polling from Angus Reid.

The survey, published by Global News, indicates that public sentiment is shifting toward a confrontational stance as the trade dispute with Washington intensifies.

The findings emerge as Canada braces for the implementation of steep 50% tariffs on a wide range of Canadian goods, scheduled to take effect next month.

The findings emerge as Canada braces for the implementation of steep 50% tariffs on a wide range of Canadian goods, scheduled to take effect next month.

The U.S. administration has defended the measure by citing what it describes as retaliatory and discriminatory actions taken by Canada against American interests.

For markets, the poll underscores the political difficulty of de-escalation.

With public opinion favoring a fight, Ottawa’s room for diplomatic maneuvering narrows, increasing the likelihood of a tit-for-tat trade war.