Canadian visits to the United States have crashed to record lows as political tensions boil over. New data shows car trips from Canada plunged 32% in March alone. Border towns and tourist hotspots are feeling the pinch as longtime visitors stay home.
President Trump’s “America First” trade policies sparked the backlash. His 25% tariffs on Canadian goods and jokes about annexing Canada rubbed many the wrong way. Cross-border families and businesses say the partnership feels broken. A Niagara Falls restaurant owner called the tariffs “cutting off their nose to spite their face” as regulars cancel reservations.
The White House isn’t backing down. A spokesperson vowed to keep deporting “illegal migrant lunatics” to make cities safer for tourists. She predicted record tourism once Trump’s border security agenda finishes. Meanwhile, U.S. Customs reports 12% fewer northern border crossings this winter.
Canadians cite rude treatment at airports and Trump’s “51st state” comments as dealbreakers. Travel agencies say U.S. bookings dropped 90% in some areas. Snowbirds now flock to Mexico instead of Florida. A Vancouver lawyer scrapped Hawaii condo plans over “loyalty to Canada.” Critics call it virtue signaling, but the boycott has real teeth.
States like New York and California face billions in losses. Palm Springs hung “We ♥ Canada” banners to save its winter tourism season. The U.S. Travel Association warns 14,000 hospitality jobs could vanish. Free market advocates blame overreach—tariffs should punish rivals like China, not allies.
Conservatives argue short-term pain brings long-term gains. Strong borders and fair trade deals protect American workers. Letting Canberra dictate terms would weaken U.S. sovereignty. If Canada can’t handle tough negotiations, that’s their loss. America’s 250th birthday celebrations in 2026 will draw crowds regardless.
The rift highlights differing values. Trump prioritizes economic nationalism over diplomatic niceties. Canada clings to globalist politeness. Real friends don’t boycott each other over policy spats. Patriots hope our northern neighbors soon recognize Trump’s vision—making America safe and prosperous benefits everyone.
This storm will pass. Shared history and geography bind our nations. Once Canada elects a pro-U.S. leader on April 28, common sense will prevail. Until then, red-blooded Americans should vacation domestically. Visit the Grand Canyon instead of complaining about empty motels. Let’s show the world American grit doesn’t bend to foreign boycotts.
