Gov. Gavin Newsom urged Canadians to “experience Californian love” on Monday after seeing Dip on a visit from a Northern US neighbor who said they were marginalized by President Trump’s policies.
In a video posted on social media, Newsom focuses on the appeal of the Golden State and distances himself from the Trump administration.
“It’s true, you’re going to go back to DC and stir things up, but don’t ruin your beach plans,” Newsom said, with images of a woman flying through the kite on the Golden Gate Bridge and the beach, appearing in the video.
“California is the ultimate playground over 2,000 miles from Washington, and its world around the world with its mindset, from iconic beaches and national parks to world-class wine, food and outdoor adventures.
California’s Canadian tourism fell 12% in February compared to the same month in 2024, according to the governor’s office. Many Canadians cite concerns about Trump’s policies as reasons to travel.
Trump laughed at Canada, calling it the “51st state” of America and threatened to use “economic forces” to annex a country of 40 million people. Trump also began collecting 25% tariffs on Canadian goods, creating more responsiveness.
Travelers are also warned of Canadian recommendations and that citizens should “expect scrutiny” at the US border.
Many Canadians are already unhappy with Trump’s economic and immigration policies.
Canadian fans have booed “starspangled banners” before hockey and baseball games. Retailers are removing American goods from store shelves as authorities try to “buy residents in Canada.”
Newsom is trying to ease their fears, emphasizing that California will continue to welcome open arms.
“Here in California, there’s sunshine and a lot of love for our neighbors upstairs,” Newsom said in the video.
According to the governor’s office, around 1.8 million Canadians visited Golden State in 2024, spending around $3.72 billion.
Visiting California, a nonprofit dedicated to promoting tourism, the state predicts this year that it will reduce tourism revenue by $6 billion this year due to a decline in international visitors, including Canadians.
One of the most intense hit locations is Coachella Valley, where snowbirds flock to each winter.
The city of Palm Springs recently hanged its banner to welcome and encourage visitors by declaring “Palm Springs♥Canada”. Canada is the city’s top international travel source, Palm Springs Mayor Ron DeJarte told the Times this month.
“California and Canada have a lot in common,” Caroline Betta, CEO of Visiting California, said in a statement. “Our inclusive values, our love for natural beauty, our passion for innovation binds us. We look forward to welcoming you with the same community spirit you have always shown us.”
Newsom has also worked to strengthen economic and political ties between California and Canada.
According to his office, he met with British Columbia Premier David Ebby on Monday to discuss opportunities for lumber industry collaboration, national transport corridors and affordable housing projects.
Times staff writer Haley Branson Potts contributed to this report.
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