Canadians’ Economic Optimism Declines Under Carney’s Leadership

A recent survey indicates a marked decline in economic optimism among Canadians following the election of Prime Minister Mark Carney. According to the Angus Reid Institute, only 35% of Canadians now believe that the national economy is in good or very good shape. This figure represents a significant drop of 14 percentage points from 49% reported in June 2025.

The survey, conducted online between August 28 and September 5, 2025, highlights a growing dissatisfaction with the economic climate. Approximately three in five respondents view the economy as poor (41%) or very poor (20%). Despite this overall pessimism, a majority of Canadians—around two-thirds (68%)—still report their household finances as at least good. This figure, however, has decreased by four points since June.

Disparities in perceptions of the economy are evident among different demographics, particularly among retirees. Approximately equal numbers of Canadians aged 65 and older describe the national economy as good (48%) or poor (48%). In contrast, younger age groups are almost twice as likely to view the economy negatively compared to those who perceive it positively.

Regional differences also emerge in the survey findings. Residents of Alberta (51%) and Saskatchewan (46%) are the most likely to describe their provincial economies as being in good shape. Conversely, only 32% of Quebec residents share this optimistic viewpoint.

The survey reveals that 39% of Canadians feel they are worse off financially compared to the same time last year, while only 16% report being better off. The remaining 43% indicate that their financial situation has remained unchanged.

The Angus Reid Institute conducted this study with a randomized sample of 4,330 Canadians. For context, a probability sample of this size has a margin of error of +/- 1.5 percentage points, 19 times out of 20.

As Prime Minister Carney’s government continues its tenure, the evolving economic sentiment among Canadians will be a crucial factor in shaping future policy decisions and public support.