As Donald Trump enters his second term as US President, Canada, America’s closest neighbour, has experienced significant shifts in its longstanding relationship with its southern ally and trading partner. From a surge in Canadian patriotism to a decline in cross-border travel, the impact of Trump’s policies has been far-reaching.
One of the most notable changes has been a shift in how Canadians perceive the United States. Polling data indicates that 64% of Canadians held a negative view of the US in 2025, the highest level recorded in over two decades. This represents a stark reversal from the pre-Trump era, when the majority of Canadians held a favourable opinion of their neighbour. Canadians also expressed a lack of confidence in Trump’s leadership, with 77% describing him as arrogant and dangerous.
This growing sense of unease has translated into changes in Canadian behaviour. The number of Canadians travelling to the US has dropped by more than 25%, as many opt to vacation domestically or venture to destinations like Mexico instead. Canadians have also become more selective in their purchasing habits, with a surge in demand for locally-produced goods and a boycott of American alcohol products in retaliation against Trump’s tariffs.
The political landscape in Canada has also been significantly shaped by the Trump presidency. The resignation of former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and the subsequent rise of Mark Carney, a former central banker with a focus on standing up to Trump, has been a game-changer. Carney’s economic experience and his ability to appeal to voters concerned about Canada’s sovereignty and economy have helped the Liberal Party regain power, defying pre-election predictions.
In the face of an increasingly unpredictable trade relationship with the US, Canada has sought to bolster ties with other nations, including China and India. Carney’s recent visit to China and his announcement of a deal to reduce tariffs between the two countries signal a strategic shift in Canada’s foreign policy. This diversification of trade partnerships is seen as a necessary response to the challenges posed by the Trump administration.
As Canada navigates these complex geopolitical waters, the question remains: how will the country’s relationship with its southern neighbour continue to evolve under Trump’s second term? The answers will undoubtedly shape Canada’s future in the years to come.
