POLIS Index Canada for Party Leaders
Highlights by 2SLGBTQ+ Identification
Perceptions of political leaders vary significantly depending on whether respondents identify as 2SLGBTQ+. Among respondents who do not identify as 2SLGBTQ+, Mark Carney receives the highest POLIS score at 3.32, followed by Jagmeet Singh at 2.98, and Pierre Poilievre at 2.49. Carney is consistently rated highest across values such as competence, legitimacy, and procedural fairness. Singh performs well on fairness and benevolence, while Poilievre ranks lowest across most values but receives slightly higher marks on competence in this group.
Among respondents who identify as 2SLGBTQ+, the gap between leaders becomes much more pronounced. Carney scores 3.56—the highest POLIS score in the entire dataset for this group—followed by Singh at 3.38, and Poilievre at just 1.90. These results indicate that 2SLGBTQ+ Canadians see Carney and Singh as far more ethically aligned with their values than Poilievre. Singh's strong performance reflects perceptions of moral warmth, fairness, and inclusivity, while Poilievre's significantly lower score suggests a substantial perception gap on key ethical values.
Carney's strong ratings in both groups reflect broad-based appeal grounded in perceptions of competence and institutional trustworthiness. His POLIS score is even stronger among 2SLGBTQ+ respondents, suggesting he is viewed as especially credible in contexts where fairness and legitimacy are critical. Singh’s improved score in this group indicates that his values-driven messaging resonates more strongly with equity-seeking communities.
Poilievre’s sharp drop among 2SLGBTQ+ respondents—more than half a point lower than his score among non-2SLGBTQ+ Canadians—signals a serious perception issue. He scores particularly low on benevolence, fairness, and transparency, values that may be especially important to 2SLGBTQ+ individuals evaluating ethical leadership. While he performs better on competence and legitimacy among the general population, these are not enough to offset the broader gaps in perceived ethical alignment among this group.
Overall, the data show that 2SLGBTQ+ identity meaningfully shapes how political leaders are evaluated. Carney is perceived as the most ethically trustworthy leader across both groups, with Singh also receiving strong support, especially among 2SLGBTQ+ respondents. Poilievre remains the lowest-rated leader overall, with a significant perception gap among equity-seeking groups. These findings reinforce the importance of values-based representation and inclusive leadership, as reflected through the lens of the POLIS Index.
What values do people in democratic nations want their political parties to imbue and represent?
Integrity
Integrity means acting consistently with one’s principles and telling the truth, even when it's inconvenient. In a democracy, people expect their political representatives to follow through on promises and live up to the values they claim to hold. Without integrity, public trust quickly erodes.
Benevolence
Benevolence reflects care, compassion, and a commitment to serving the public rather than personal or partisan interests. Citizens expect those in power to act in the best interest of society, especially for vulnerable or underserved groups. When benevolence is lacking, politics can feel distant and self-serving.
Accountability
Accountability means being answerable for decisions and willing to admit mistakes. Democratic systems rely on the idea that leaders serve the people and must face consequences if they fall short. When accountability is strong, citizens feel empowered to demand better.
Legitimacy
Legitimacy is the belief that those in power deserve their authority and represent the people fairly. It’s not just about winning elections — it’s about earning public trust through ethical, democratic leadership. Without legitimacy, political systems struggle to function effectively or peacefully.
Competence
Competence is the ability to get things done — to design effective policies, manage resources, and solve problems. In democratic societies, voters want leaders who can deliver real results and meet the needs of diverse communities. Good intentions matter, but capable execution is essential.
Transparency
Transparency is about openness — making decisions visible, explaining them clearly, and sharing information honestly. In a democracy, people have a right to know how decisions are made and why. Transparency builds public confidence and helps prevent corruption or manipulation.
Procedural Fairness
Procedural fairness ensures that rules are applied equally, decisions are made impartially, and everyone is treated with respect. In a diverse democracy, fairness is the foundation of legitimacy — it reassures people that the system is not biased or rigged. Fair processes create faith in just outcomes.