January 9, 2026
RED FM News Desk
A new poll suggests tensions between Western Canada and the federal government are easing, with attitudes toward Ottawa improving across all four western provinces — most notably in Alberta.
The survey, conducted by Pollara Strategic Insights, found that 50 per cent of Western Canadians now believe the federal government pays attention to their province, the highest level recorded in four years.
Support was strongest in British Columbia, where 53 per cent of respondents shared that view, followed by Alberta at 51 per cent and Manitoba at 49 per cent. Saskatchewan stood out as the lone exception, with just 36 per cent saying they feel heard by Ottawa.
Despite Saskatchewan’s lower numbers, perceptions of the federal government improved in all four provinces. Alberta saw the most dramatic shift, with positive views rising 13 points from a low of 38 per cent in late 2023.
Matt Smith, Pollara’s lead for Western Canada, said the results indicate Prime Minister Mark Carney’s outreach to the region is gaining traction.
“Carney’s more economic focus, bringing in policies that the West and others wanted, is resonating with people,” Smith said.
The poll suggests that recent federal efforts are beginning to soften long-standing frustrations in Western Canada, though challenges remain in some provinces.
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