A new survey suggests Nova Scotians are much more satisfied with the federal government than the provincial government.
Narrative Research says 59 per cent of Nova Scotians surveyed are dissatisfied with the performance of the provincial government.
The polling firm says concerns in Nova Scotia include fiscal decisions, service cuts, cultural-sector cuts, healthcare, environmental and resource decisions, and a perception of favouritism toward business interests.
The same survey found stronger support for the federal government.
Narrative Research says 65 per cent of Nova Scotians surveyed are satisfied with the federal government led by Prime Minister Mark Carney.
Across Atlantic Canada, 64 per cent of people surveyed said they were satisfied with the federal government.
Narrative Research says that support is being driven by confidence in Carney’s handling of Canada’s relationship with the United States, efforts to reduce reliance on the U.S. and expand trade with other countries, and views of steady leadership during an uncertain economic period.
Those dissatisfied with the federal government pointed to concerns around affordability, government spending, deficits and debt.
“What stands out is a clear divide in public sentiment,” said Margaret Brigley, CEO and partner at Narrative Research. “Atlantic Canadians are expressing growing frustration with their provincial governments, driven largely by local concerns such as healthcare, spending, and leadership, while at the same time showing comparatively strong confidence in federal leadership during a period of economic uncertainty and change.”
The results are from Narrative Research’s Atlantic Quarterly survey.
The online survey was conducted from June 10 to 17 with eligible voters across Atlantic Canada.
A total of 1,614 surveys were completed, including 734 in Nova Scotia.
The results were weighted by region, age and gender to reflect the adult population in each province.
