As summer unfolds in Canada, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau finds himself grappling not only with personal upheavals but also it’s becoming a challenging summer politically.

A recent Angus Reid Institute study reveals that Trudeau’s Liberal Party trails behind Pierre Poilievre’s Conservative Party of Canada (CPC) by 7 points among decided and leaning voters.

This lead extends across most regions of the country, except in Quebec, where the Liberals narrowly surpass the Bloc Québécois, and Atlantic Canada.

The CPC’s lead, driven by concerns over the cost of living and housing affordability, presents a significant challenge for Trudeau and his party as the federal election cycle reaches its midway point.

Though CPC gains stem from pocketbook issues, Poilievre’s personal appeal remains a struggle, with only 36% of Canadians viewing him favorably compared to 39% for Trudeau. Poilievre’s unfavourability rating stands at a substantial 52 per cent, highlighting the struggle he faces in connecting with the electorate.

Gender disparities in approval ratings also surface, with Trudeau and Poilievre receiving varying support among men and women.

Trudeau’s popularity among young women increases, while Poilievre’s favorability remains stagnant.