Canadians' Views on Economic Growth: A Mixed Message

In a new era of Canadian politics, Prime Minister Mark Carney's government has been focusing on linking economic growth to daily life. However, research by Abacus Data suggests that Canadians are cautiously hopeful but far from convinced about the benefits of economic growth. A survey of over 2,500 Canadians revealed that a solid majority, 61%, believe economic growth will benefit them, but nearly four in 10 are unsure, doubtful or flat-out skeptical. Only 47% of Canadians believe that governments are talking about growth that will help people like them.

Key Takeaways:

• Canadians are cautiously hopeful about economic growth, but nearly four in 10 are unsure, doubtful or flat-out skeptical.
• Only 47% of Canadians believe that governments are talking about growth that will help people like them.
• Canadians are emotional in their response to economic policies, with concerns about fairness, inclusion and a clear sense of how policies will make their lives better.
• Policies such as increasing productivity, expanding post-secondary education for in-demand jobs and promoting "buy Canadian" policies scored over 60% in "good things" sentiment.
• The idea of unleashing the full potential of AI is met with skepticism, with only 17% saying it will be good for them and 30% saying it will be bad.
• Canadians want to see tangible evidence of how economic policies will benefit them, particularly in areas such as jobs, skills, opportunity and national pride.

Statistics:

• 61% of Canadians believe economic growth will benefit them.
• 39% of Canadians are unsure, doubtful or flat-out skeptical about the benefits of economic growth.
• 47% of Canadians believe governments are talking about growth that will help people like them.
• 53% of Canadians agree with the statement, "Even if the economy grows, I don't trust that the benefits will reach people like me."
• 17% of Canadians believe unleashing the full potential of AI will be good for them.
• 30% of Canadians believe unleashing the full potential of AI will be bad for them.

Sources:

• Abacus Data
• Prime Minister Mark Carney
• www.thestar.com