The close relationship between communities along the U.S.-Canada border has taken a hit in the wake of escalating trade tensions under President Trump’s administration. Blaine, Washington which is just south of British Columbia has long depended on Canadian visitors who regularly cross the border to purchase goods like gas and groceries at lower prices. However, amid growing diplomatic friction and rising nationalist rhetoric, many Canadians are now choosing to stay home. This informal boycott is already taking a toll on small businesses in Whatcom County, where shops and gas stations report sharp declines in sales. For some business owners, the drop in Canadian traffic has been more severe than even the typical seasonal slump.

Canadian crossings into Whatcom County are down dramatically, and some Canadians have voiced their reluctance to spend money in a country they believe is treating their nation disrespectfully. The resulting economic pressure is being felt by everyone from gas station operators to hotel managers, and even by local government leaders who worry about shrinking sales tax revenue. Blaine’s mayor has warned that city furloughs may be on the table if revenues continue to fall.

While some local residents remain hopeful that the political climate will eventually improve and cross-border traffic will rebound, others are concerned that the rift may deepen. Business owners are increasingly caught in the middle, facing backlash over policies made in Washington, D.C., that they cannot control. Despite the strain, many locals, including tourism officials, are urging Canadians not to view individual towns as representatives of national politics and are reaffirming the community’s long-standing ties with their northern neighbors. Still, with events like hotel bookings plummeting and major annual festivals at risk of lower attendance, the economic fallout may not resolve quickly.