Doug Rogers

Sorry, Governor Newsom—Canadians Aren’t Coming Until It’s Safe

The silence is growing exponentially, where there used to be thousands of Canadian voices cheering at Disneyland, sunbathing on Florida beaches, or golfing in Arizona. That silence? It’s the sound of Canadians staying home, and it’s starting to hurt the American tourism economy big time. So much so, in fact, that we’re now seeing U.S. state governors taking to the internet, begging us, and I mean pleading for Canadians to return.

One of the most vocal has been California Governor Gavin Newsom. His state’s tourism board has launched glossy new campaigns. He’s appeared in videos touting California’s “inclusivity,” and he’s personally urged Canadians to come back to the Golden State. They’ve even run ad campaigns right here in Canada. Hoping to lure us with shots of wine country, the Pacific Coast Highway, and yes, even Mickey Mouse.

Nice try, Governor. But you’re missing the point.

The reason Canadians aren’t crossing the border in droves like we used to, is not just about dollars or destination appeal. It’s about dignity, and increasingly, it’s about safety.

This all started when Donald Trump publicly insulted our Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau. Remember that? He called him “weak,” “dishonest,” and started the 51^st State mess. He treated our country like an enemy rather than a neighbour or partner. That rhetoric wasn’t just talk. It was the beginning of a shift in how Canadians were perceived south of the border.

Then came the tariffs. Slapping duties on Canadian steel, aluminum, and prompting retaliatory tariffs in return. Add in the auto tariffs and it felt like economic warfare against a friendly neighbour. It left a sour taste in many Canadian mouths.

But what’s keeping us home now? What’s really stopping Canadian tourism from rebounding? It’s the border.

More and more Canadians are reporting increasingly aggressive treatment when trying to enter the U.S. People stopped and questioned over innocuous things. Detained without explanation. In some cases, sent back home without even stepping foot inside the U.S. boundary.

Some have been interrogated about their travel history. Others, shockingly, have been asked about their political beliefs—including what they think about Donald Trump. Let that sink in. Would you take your family to a country where there’s a legitimate risk of being hassled? Humiliated? Or held back because of your views or nationality?

And here’s the disconnect. Governors like Newsom and others in Florida, Arizona, and even New York, are putting out videos and messages full of sunny smiles. Beautiful landscapes, and upbeat promises that show their states “love Canadians.” And sure, they probably do. But they don’t control the border.

The U.S. Border Patrol doesn’t answer to Governor Newsom. Homeland Security doesn’t care how many Canadians visited Disneyland in 2019. All the California wine in the world won’t make up for the risk of being treated like a criminal just for showing up.

Governor Newsom may genuinely want Canadians back and I do not doubt his sincerity. But what he and other U.S. leaders need to realize is that tourism is not just about attraction. It’s about trust. And right now, trust is in short supply.

Until we feel safe, respected, and welcome; not just by state-level tourism boards, but by federal authorities, Canadians will not be coming back. It’s that simple.

So, to all the American governors out there making heartfelt pleas: we hear you. But maybe it’s time you started having serious conversations with Washington. Because until the national border climate changes, and the fear of being treated like a suspect fade, our dollars and our loyalty will stay right here in Canada.

And frankly? With everything we have to offer, we’re doing just fine without the border drama. If we do want to venture outside of Canada, there are plenty of nice warm, beautiful tropical countries that still treat us with respect and a welcoming tone.

Stay safe, stay informed, and as always, stand tall, Canada. Elbows Up!