Several recent polls suggest that a majority of Canadians support retaliatory tariffs against the United States, but that support drops sharply when the potential consequences include personal job losses and greater economic costs.
A survey released Sept. 8 by the non-profit group Build Canada found that 75 percent of respondents supported Canada maintaining a firm position in the trade dispute with the United States, even if it resulted in long-term economic costs. However, 68 percent said they would not support a tough stance if it increased the risk of someone in their household facing a significantly higher chance of losing their job.
The poll also found between 56 and 60 percent of respondents would not support Canada taking a tough stance if it resulted in household tax increases of $500, $1,000, or $2,500. Similarly, between 58 and 68 percent said they would change their position if the approach resulted in losses of 5, 10 or 20 percent to retirement savings or investments….