Why Go After Canada?

I like Canadians. Every one that used to come to Marco were smart, entertaining, and respectful individuals. I worked on many projects in Canada and was impressed by the professional and courteous approach in which they conducted business. Even in British Columbia, where a project “encroached” on Indigenous peoples’ land, and with their culture under attack, they stood their ground in a civil, tactful manner.

So why the aggression against our neighbor with whom we share the longest undefended border in the world, a prime trading partner, and a supporter of US global conflicts? Why threaten annexation and instigate a trade war that hurts everyone? Then escalate it to protest what was described as discrimination by Canada for defending itself with its own tariffs in a trade war our President started.

The result is pushing Canada to look for other partners. Since Canada no longer has to pretend to respect the present administration, they did not meet with the US at the recent UN Assembly to discuss the trade war but instead courted China. The EU may invite Canada as the first associate member, opining that the US has become an unreliable ally and to counter American bullying.

According to the Naples, Marco Island, Everglades Convention and Visitors Bureau, Collier County has experienced a 20% drop in Canadian visitors. Canadian snowbirds and long-stay visitors traditionally make up one of the largest international demographics for local hotels, vacation rentals, and restaurants on Marco Island. A failing trade policy has now morphed into Canadian import bans so stock up on your Crown Royal whisky while you still can.