Impact of U.S.-Canada Relations on Border Town Businesses

In Lewiston, New York, local businesses are grappling with a significant downturn in tourism, primarily attributed to strained U.S.-Canada relations under former President Donald Trump. Aimee Loughran, owner of Just Desserts bakery, reported a 30% drop in revenues, largely due to a year-long boycott by Canadian visitors. This sentiment is echoed by other local business owners, such as Judy, co-owner of Antique to Chic, who has seen a 20% decline in sales. The once-thriving tourism sector, which heavily relied on Canadian day-trippers, has been severely impacted, with local officials noting a drastic reduction in cross-border traffic.

Trump's aggressive rhetoric and trade policies have been cited as critical factors in the decline of Canadian visitors. Frank Strangio, president of the Niagara Falls Hotel and Motel Association, highlighted that personal vehicle crossings in the Buffalo-Niagara Falls area fell by 16.3%, equating to a loss of over 717,000 crossings in the past year. Strangio expressed concern over boarded-up stores and the potential closure of major shopping centers, which are vital to the local tax base. Local leaders, including Robert Restaino, the mayor of Niagara Falls, have criticized Trump's approach, stating that it has fostered a negative atmosphere that discourages Canadian tourists.

New York Senator Chuck Schumer condemned Trump's tariffs, labeling them as "a dagger aimed at the heart of upstate New York and at working families." He argued that these tariffs effectively act as a tax on all Americans, particularly impacting those in western New York. Local officials have called for a recognition of the detrimental effects of these policies, with Restaino suggesting that the federal government must acknowledge its missteps to restore cross-border relations.

Critics of Trump's policies, including local business owners and politicians, have voiced their concerns about the long-term implications of the current political climate. John Percy, chief executive of Destination Niagara, noted a shift in Canadian sentiment, stating that many Canadians now feel compelled to hide their travel plans to the U.S. due to the negative rhetoric. Some locals, while supportive of certain Trump policies, have expressed frustration over his comments regarding Canada, with one stating, “What a jerk … shut up, just stop. Be a president, act like a president.”

In response to the declining tourism, local leaders are exploring alternative avenues to attract visitors. Restaino is advocating for a $200 million investment in a new 6,000-seat events center aimed at hosting cross-border sports events. However, concerns remain about the long-term recovery of the tourism sector, as Percy warned that every lost market share takes years to regain. The ongoing political tensions pose a significant challenge to revitalizing the once-strong relationship between the U.S. and Canada, leaving many in the community worried about the future of their businesses and the local economy.

• “They’re not coming any more,” — Frank Strangio, Hotel Owner

• “a dagger aimed at the heart of upstate New York and at working families” — Chuck Schumer, U.S. Senator

• “Every bit of market share that we lose internationally takes us that many more years to regain,” — John Percy, Destination Niagara Chief Executive

• “What a jerk … shut up, just stop. Be a president, act like a president.” — Local Business Owner