Ford government enjoys polling bump after latest U.S.-Canada trade war twist

Ontario Premier Doug Ford is currently riding a significant polling surge following the recent escalation in the trade conflict with the United States, as indicated by a new poll conducted by Liaison Strategies. The poll, carried out on August 23 and 24, shows the Progressive Conservatives (PCs) reclaiming the lead over the Liberal Party, with 39% of respondents supporting the PCs, compared to 35% for the Liberals.

The NDP and Green parties lagged behind with 20% and 5% support, respectively. The poll reflects a reversal in fortunes for the Ford-led PC party, which had been struggling in the polls due to several recent controversies, including the purchase of a private jet for the premier, stricter transparency laws, and a spending scandal.

David Valentin, principal at Liaison Strategies, attributes the shift in voter sentiment to the latest U.S. tariffs imposed on Canadian products by President Donald Trump. The poll was conducted as the tariffs took effect, and Ford's escalating personal attacks against Trump have further influenced public opinion. Despite Ford's heated rhetoric, the poll does not suggest a complete recovery for the premier, as the Progressive Conservatives are still "deeply underwater" in terms of public opinion.

While the PCs have reclaimed their lead, Valentin emphasizes that the party's political health is still far from ideal, indicating that the trade war may have temporarily shifted public opinion but does not signal a full political turnaround for Ford and the Progressive Conservatives.