New tracking from an INNOVATIVE online poll of 3,763 Canadians shows the federal government appears to be paying a significant price for controversies over access to the COVID-19 vaccine. Federal approval on its handling of the COVID-19 pandemic has dropped from 57% in late December to 47% in February.
The federal government is not alone in struggling with COVID-19. Ontario government approval has also been declining. The Ontario slide, which began in October, saw a 3-point drop in February down to 43% following controversies over social contact restrictions and vaccine distribution.
In contrast, Quebec, BC, and Alberta all saw small gains in approval this month. Quebec and BC have consistently held high levels of approval since the Spring but the 5-point gain to 34% in Alberta marks the first reversal in a 20-point slide from October.
All five of Canada’s largest governments show improved perceptions of their approach to social restrictions this month. The federal government, BC, Alberta, and Ontario still have more saying restrictions are too loose than too tight, but they are seeing a more even balance in those who say too tight and too loose and most show gains in the right balance. Quebec now has an almost even balance in those who say too loose and too tight.
For more detail on Canadians views of their governments, check out our full report here.
