The Danger of Algorithm-Driven Platforms and the Rise of Trumpism in Canada

How American-style politics is creeping into Canadian life—especially through our screens

Introduction: A Warning from the South

Over the past decade, American politics has grown increasingly polarized, sensational, and hostile, culminating in the rise of Donald Trump and the MAGA movement. But what many Canadians don’t realize is that algorithm-driven platforms like Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok are helping to import this toxic political culture directly into Canadian homes.

This isn’t just a southern problem anymore. From downtown Peterborough to rural Kawartha Lakes, echoes of U.S. culture wars and misinformation are shaping how Canadians think, vote, and engage with each other—often without realizing it.

What Are Algorithm-Driven Platforms?

Algorithm-driven platforms are digital spaces where the content you see is not curated by editors or based on your subscriptions but chosen by mathematical formulas designed to keep you engaged. These platforms include:

• Facebook & Instagram (Meta)
• YouTube (Google)
• TikTok (Bytedance)
• X (formerly Twitter)
• Reddit and even Spotify or Amazon

These algorithms track your clicks, likes, watch time, and reactions—then show you more of what keeps you glued to the screen, regardless of whether it’s accurate, fair, or socially responsible.

Why This Matters in Canada

Canada has always prided itself on more moderate politics, strong public healthcare, and a generally civil discourse. But lately, we’re seeing a different tone emerge—one shaped by U.S.-style extremism and misinformation. And the root of this shift often lies in algorithmic amplification.

Real-World Examples in Ontario:

• Peterborough’s viral disinformation: A conspiracy group falsely claiming government corruption in our city hall gained massive online traction in 2023, all amplified by viral posts and AI-generated videos.
• Anti-vaccine protests in Lindsay & Kawartha Lakes: Some of these demonstrations were organized entirely via Facebook groups and Telegram channels linked to U.S. far-right networks.
• “Freedom Convoy” echoes: Many local Canadians who supported the 2022 convoy were exposed to that movement through Facebook Lives, TikToks, or YouTube videos—amplified mainly by American influencers.

How Algorithms Spread Extremism

Algorithms reward emotion over truth. That means:

• Outrage > nuance
• Fear > facts
• Conspiracy > complexity

If you engage with one video criticizing vaccines, immigration, or government spending—even out of curiosity—you’ll likely be served more content with a similar tone. Before long, you’re in an echo chamber that distorts your understanding of reality.

This is how “Trumpism”—a mix of populism, anti-elite rhetoric, and conspiracy-driven politics—has crept into Canadian discourse, especially among people who don’t consider themselves political.

Key Traits of Algorithm-Amplified Trumpism in Canada:

1. Distrust in Canadian institutions (e.g., CBC, Elections Canada)
2. Hostility toward the press and public health
3. Use of slogans like “fake news,” “deep state,” or “freedom” in vague, ideological terms
4. Imported U.S. culture war issues (e.g., “critical race theory” or “drag story time” debates)

Who’s Most Vulnerable?

Anyone can fall into these digital rabbit holes, but some groups are especially at risk:

• Older Canadians are more likely to use Facebook as a primary news source.
• Younger audiences on TikTok/YouTube: Exposed to highly personalized, politicized content early.
• Rural and small-town residents sometimes have fewer local media sources, relying more heavily on online content.
• People who are already distrustful of the government or the media

Even in Peterborough—a community with strong civic pride and engaged citizens—local online groups have become battlegrounds for misinformation and imported ideology.

The Canadian Media Gap

Part of the problem lies in the shrinking presence of traditional Canadian journalism. In the last decade, over 470 local news outlets in Canada have closed, including print newspapers and small radio stations.

This void is quickly filled by:

• Unverified blogs and influencers
• U.S. media outlets like Fox News or Breitbart
• Clickbait YouTube creators who monetize outrage

Without strong Canadian alternatives, people in Peterborough and beyond are turning to unregulated online spaces—spaces dominated by algorithmic logic rather than editorial integrity.

What Can We Do About It?

1. Strengthen Local Media

• Support outlets like Peterborough Currents and The Examiner.
• Share verified stories in community groups.
• Push for municipal and federal funding models that invest in trustworthy journalism.

2. Improve Media Literacy

• Schools should teach kids how to spot misinformation and identify credible sources.
• Adults can access free media literacy programs online through organizations like MediaSmarts and The Walrus Lab.

3. Call Out Algorithmic Bias

• Push platforms to disclose how their algorithms work and allow users to turn them off.
• Use browser extensions or app settings to reset or adjust your feed.
• Support regulatory efforts, such as Bill C-18, which aim to make platforms pay for Canadian journalism.

4. Be Cautious of Imported Politics

• Ask: Is this issue even relevant in Canada?
• Look for distinctly Canadian voices instead of defaulting to U.S. influencers or pundits.
• Encourage political discourse that reflects our values, not borrowed battles from across the border.

A Peterborough-Sized Solution

Here in Peterborough, we still have the tools to build civic resilience. Local leaders, journalists, teachers, and residents can push back against the creep of Trumpism and algorithmic manipulation. Whether it’s challenging a viral post in a neighbourhood Facebook group or supporting a young journalist, these actions matter.

This is about more than politics—it’s about protecting our uniquely Canadian approach to democracy, decency, and dialogue.

Final Thought

Canada isn’t immune to American-style division. Algorithm-driven platforms are shaping what we see, think, and fear—often without our conscious consent. If we’re not careful, the subtle pull of these algorithms can shift our politics, polarize our communities, and erode the trust that holds cities like Peterborough together.

Let’s make sure the loudest voices on our screens don’t drown out the values we live by.