By John Q. Hosedrinker 
According to a recent Pew Research Center poll, a majority of Canadians (59%) now identify the U.S. as their biggest threat, surpassing China, which was previously the top concern. This shift coincides with escalating tensions under the previous U.S. administration. Notably, a significant portion of Canadians (25%) consider the U.S. both their top ally and their top threat. Similar sentiments were echoed in Mexico, where a majority also viewed the U.S. as the primary threat. In the U.S., China was most frequently identified as the top threat, though this varied along party lines.
Read the original article here
Most Canadians Now Say the U.S. Is the Biggest Threat to Their Country
The shift in sentiment is undeniable. The idea that the United States is the biggest threat to Canada is no longer a fringe opinion; it’s becoming the dominant view. It’s a jarring change, especially considering the long history of friendship and economic partnership between the two nations. This isn’t about minor disagreements; it’s a fundamental re-evaluation of the relationship, fueled by growing anxieties about the future.
This isn’t a sudden development. It’s the culmination of several factors. Trump’s rhetoric, particularly his labeling of Canada as a threat to national security, certainly played a role. His aggressive trade policies and the suggestion of annexation, however off-hand they may have seemed, have been deeply unsettling. This is compounded by the growing perception of the United States as a nation in political and social turmoil, and it’s difficult to ignore the echoes of history that are resonating in the context.
The concerns extend beyond politics. There’s a deep-seated worry about the erosion of Canadian sovereignty and identity. The fear isn’t just about military invasion; it’s about the creeping influence of American culture and values, threatening to subsume Canada’s distinct character. Many Canadians feel that their way of life is under threat, and they see the US as the primary source of that pressure. This sentiment is particularly strong among those who see a decline in American democracy.
Furthermore, it seems that this is a two-way street. Many Americans, especially those who identify as Republicans, may not realize the damage that has been done. The perception of the US as an ally is, to many Canadians, shattered, and it’s difficult to imagine how the relationship can be fully repaired, considering the current political climate. The threats, the trade disputes, and the overall tone of disrespect have created a chasm of mistrust.
The situation is further complicated by the rise of extremist ideologies in the US. The influence of these groups, and their potential to spread to Canada, is a source of genuine concern. Canadians recognize the potential for these ideologies to infiltrate their society, and view the US as the source of this threat. It’s a situation where a friendly neighbor is viewed as a potential vector for societal contamination.
The economics of the relationship are also a factor. The perception that the US isn’t a fair trading partner, and that it’s willing to use its economic power to bully Canada, adds to the negative sentiment. While Canada and the US are major trading partners, many Canadians feel that they are being taken advantage of. The imposition of tariffs and other trade barriers fuels this perception of economic exploitation.
The views aren’t just about politics and economics; they’re also about a fundamental difference in values. Canadians often see themselves as more tolerant, open-minded, and socially progressive than their neighbors to the south. The rise of certain political factions in the US challenges this sense of identity, as it can be seen as a threat to the principles Canadians hold dear.
It’s also important to note that the sentiment is not universally held. There are still many Canadians who value the close relationship with the United States and see the benefits of cooperation. However, the prevailing trend suggests that these voices are being drowned out by the growing chorus of those who see the US as a threat. This is a seismic shift in public opinion, and it has profound implications for the future of the relationship.
Looking ahead, the path forward is uncertain. The two countries are geographically linked. The challenge for policymakers is to find a way to manage the relationship in a way that respects the concerns of both sides. This will require a willingness to listen, to understand, and to find common ground, even when deeply-held values and interests are at stake. The change in attitude is a testament to the fact that alliances and friendships can be fragile, and they require constant care and attention.