Feelings of optimism toward the federal government are declining, though they remain higher than they were prior to July 2025. (Nanos)

One in three Canadians say optimism (33%) is the feeling that best describes their view of the federal government, which represents a 10-point decrease compared to the previous wave (43% in July 2025). About one in five Canadians each say pessimism (22%) and satisfaction (18%) best describe their views toward the federal government, and over one in ten (15%) describe their feelings as anger. Canadians aged over 55 are more likely to feel optimistic (41%) than those aged 18 to 34 (26%) and 35 to 54 (30%). Residents of Quebec (26%) are also significantly less likely to be optimistic than residents of Atlantic (49%).

Nanos conducted an RDD dual frame (land-and cell-lines) hybrid telephone and online random survey of 1,052 Canadians, 18 years of age or older, between September 29th and October 1st, 2025 as part of an omnibus survey.

The margin of error for this survey is ±3.0 percentage points, 19 times out of 20.

The full data tables with weighted and unweighted number of interviews are here.

The research was commissioned and conducted by Nanos Research.

To read the full report, click here.