French voters were somewhat divided, with 43 percent considering Trump’s victory more significant, while 25 percent felt Macron’s election had a bigger impact on France.
In Canada, opinions were split. Mark Carney’s win in April, based on his promise to stand up to Trump, was seen by 40 percent as more significant than Trump’s return. Slightly more, 45 percent, believed Trump’s win was more important for Canada than Carney’s.
Transparency trumps strength
In his POLITICO interview, Trump called European leaders “weak,” leading to retorts from EU politicians and prompting the pope to advise against breaking the transatlantic alliance.
Research showed Europeans agreed with Trump’s view of their leaders as weak compared to him. Trump was seen as more “strong and decisive” than their own leaders by 74 percent in Germany, 73 percent in France, and 69 percent in the U.K. In Canada, 60 percent believed Carney was stronger and more decisive, with 40 percent favoring Trump.
Ultimately, the survey found that strength is not the most desired leadership trait. Honesty and transparency were more valued in all five countries, including the U.S.
“Strength is not the most important trait for a leader, but European leaders do fall short in this area, which makes Trump’s words in the POLITICO interview resonate,” said Wride.
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