Canadians are as likely to choose Pierre Poilievre as ‘none of the above’, as the next Best PM, finds Angus Reid Institute in a poll conducted from February 28 to March 4, 2024, with a sample of 3,908 Canadian adults.
The poll finds that Poilievre’s leadership resonates with many Canadians, as he is perceived by 31% as the most suitable candidate for Prime Minister, outpacing Prime Minister Justin Trudeau (17%) and NDP leader Jagmeet Singh (15%).
Despite all this, lack of enthusiasm among the public is evident, with 28% of respondents indicating no preference among the current leaders, and an additional 10% uncertain about their choice.
Nonetheless, the poll finds NDP leader Jagmeet Singh is the most positively viewed leader (44%) among the major political parties, and Bloc Québécois leader Yves-François Blanchet is viewed favourably by half (52%) in Quebec.
Angus Reid says despite the Liberal government’s efforts to gain favour through policy initiatives such as the announcement of a national pharmacare program in collaboration with the New Democratic Party (NDP), public opinion has remained largely unchanged.
The opposition Conservatives have capitalized on this stagnation, maintaining a comfortable lead with 40% of would-be voters’ support, significantly outpacing the Liberals (23%) and the NDP (21%). Angus Reid says Conservatives are leading in provinces except Quebec, where the Bloc Québécois best all others.
The survey finds that the overarching concerns for Canadians remain consistent, focusing on the cost of living, healthcare, housing affordability, and climate change.