Poll: Most Americans oppose Trump’s decision to rename Lake Ontario

Only 14% of Americans support renaming Lake Ontario “Lake America,” according to an Ipsos poll reported by Reuters. The lake has carried its current name for more than 400 years.

The survey also found that 57% of respondents oppose higher tariffs on Canadian goods, while about 20% support them. The poll was conducted over three days and completed on Sunday.

The results come amid a deepening dispute between Washington and Ottawa following the breakdown of trade negotiations. Canada’s government has announced tariffs responding to U.S. tariffs on Canadian imports worth $20 billion.

The survey said U.S. households were already under financial pressure from rising gasoline prices after Trump launched his offensive against Iran in February. Voters identified the cost of living as the main issue likely to determine their choices in the Nov. 3 congressional elections.

Trump’s executive order on the lake’s name followed the failed trade talks. Since returning to power in January 2025, he has repeatedly expressed a desire for Canada to become the 51st U.S. state, a proposal Canadian officials have rejected and described as ridiculous.