As Canadians celebrate the nation’s 158th birthday, a new poll shows optimism about Canada’s future has rebounded — but deep divisions remain over what the country truly offers its citizens.According to data released by the Angus Reid Institute, 56% of Canadians now say they feel positive about where the country is headed, up sharply from 39% in December. At that time, pessimism outweighed optimism by 22 points. Now, more say Canada is on the right track (46%) than the wrong track (40%).The resurgence in pride and positivity comes amid a post-election political reset and what researchers describe as a “Donald Trump-driven” uptick in national sentiment. But many remain unconvinced about the nation’s strengths, particularly when it comes to quality of life and opportunity..While 72% agree Canada offers a good quality of life, nearly one-quarter disagree. Among Conservative voters in the April election, that figure rises to 42%. Working-age Canadians, particularly those aged 35 to 54, are also more likely to express doubt, with 28% saying the country doesn’t deliver on quality of life.Younger Canadians are notably uncertain about building a future in the country. While 60% of 18- to 34-year-olds say Canada is a good place to start a family, 27% disagree. In contrast, 79% of retirement-age Canadians express confidence, reflecting more settled lives and experiences.Economic concerns remain front and centre, particularly in the context of Prime Minister Mark Carney’s efforts to spur growth. Fewer than half (45%) say Canada is a good place to start a business. That number drops further in several provinces: just 39% in B.C. and Alberta, 40% in Saskatchewan, and 41% in Ontario agree..A full 50% of respondents also say it’s inaccurate to describe Canada as a country where “everyone has the same opportunities.” Older Canadians are far more likely to believe that statement than younger respondents.Regional divides are also pronounced. Albertans are the least likely to express pride in being Canadian, with 28% saying they are not proud — well above the 18% national average. At the same time, Alberta is the only region in the country where optimism about Canada’s future fails to reach a majority, sitting at 47%.In contrast, pride is strongest in Ontario and Atlantic Canada, where half of respondents say they are “very proud” to be Canadian. Optimism is highest in Manitoba, Quebec, and Atlantic Canada, where more than 60% in each region say they are hopeful about the future.
