Are Canadians happy or glum about their democracy?

Collectively, Canadians defer to authority without coercion. Massive public support for police action against the convoy occupation that crippled Ottawa and various border crossings last year demonstrated faith in our institutions. Canadians may complain about our institutions, but our behaviour speaks louder.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, left, Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre, and NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh. For some, there is no democracy without shared prosperity and social welfare. By these standards, Canada is a democratic model to many and is why our country is attractive to immigrants, writes Nelson Wiseman.The Hill Times photographs by Andrew Meade and illustration by Neena Singhal

Opinion

BY NELSON WISEMAN

April 17, 2023

TORONTO–Pollsters have told us that Canadians are downcast about the state of political affairs. Nanos Research finds voters are angry, grumpy, and pessimistic about the federal government. The Angus Reid Institute reports that the anger is leavened with resignation and wi...

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