
Trump policies expected to cause 25% drop in Canadian tourism to Maine
Apr. 4—Maine could see a 25% drop in Canadian tourists this year because of economic insecurity, the prospect of higher prices driven by new tariffs and lingering animosity over President Donald Trump's talk of annexing their country, the state's top tourism official said Friday.
In a typical year, about 900,000 Canadians vacation in Maine, supporting local economies in beach communities like Old Orchard Beach, said Carolan Ouellette, director of the Maine Office of Tourism. But she expects to see 225,000 fewer visitors this year because of federal policy changes and political rhetoric that have upended relations with Maine's northern neighbor and most important trading partner.
That drop is likely to be part of a larger decline in international visitors more broadly. Ouellette had expected an 8.8% increase in international visitation, but now she expects it to drop by about 9.5%.
Canadians account for about 5% of Maine's overall tourist visits, but they are a vital piece of the market for some communities and businesses.
"Anecdotally, we are hearing stories about cancellations that are occurring," she said. "It's a very mixed impact across the state. In some areas and some properties, this is a critical part of their visitor base overall in Maine."
Ouellette's sober assessment comes as state lawmakers are grappling to understand how Trump's first few months in office will impact the state revenues.
In addition to the tariffs announced this week, Trump has worked to slash federal spending and the federal workforce, and his administration has been threatening to pull other funding from Maine because of an ongoing dispute with state officials over transgender athletes and diversity, equity and inclusion policies.
The state's independent, nonpartisan economic forecasting commission met earlier this week and made modest downward adjustments to income projections and increased expectations of inflation. But it remains unclear which of Trump's policies, especially his sweeping tariffs and his efforts to cut federal grants from Maine, are here for the long haul.
That economic outlook is a key component for the nonpartisan panel trying to provide the Legislature with a revenue forecast so lawmakers know how much — or how little — additional tax revenue they will have to support state programs and services. The Revenue Forecasting Committee is expected to meet April 28 and deliver its report to lawmakers by May 1.
Sheena Bunnell, an economic professor at the University of Maine in Farmington and chair of the Consensus Economic Forecasting Commission, said the state and national economies have strong foundations that will likely withstand the effects of Trump's new tariff regime in the long term and that they could even prosper if companies bring manufacturing operations back to the U.S., as the administration hopes.
But Bunnell also criticized Trump's "sledgehammer" approach to tariffs as a "very painful way" of resetting the economy and predicted that Maine residents and businesses could experience financial pain and uncertainty in the short term.
Expectations for short-term pain is reflected in the stock markets, which this week experienced their largest declines since the COVID-19 pandemic shut down the economy. And the countries targeted by Trump's tariffs are already announcing retaliation, escalating the global trade war.
But Maine's economy has weathered similar storms in the past, Bunnell said.
"We have been through pretty tough times in the past, including the financial crisis, COVID and now this. So we've had three shocks since 2007, and we have done fine," she said.
It's unclear how long that short-term uncertainty and pain will last, however. Bunnell predicted uncertainty about the direction of the economy could last six months or so, but Trump himself has indicated it could take two years before the U.S. could see any manufacturing resurgence resulting from the tariffs.
Even six months of uncertainty would be hard for Maine tourism businesses to swallow.
"That six months of uncertainty is our prime travel season," Ouellette said.
Republicans on the Appropriations and Financial Affairs Committee, which heard presentations Friday form tourism officials and the state economist, were more optimistic that Maine would weather the drastic changes in federal policy, especially in terms of tourism. They expect tourists from other states, as well as locals, will fill the void being created by a drop in Canadian tourists.
Rep. Amy Arata, R-New Gloucester, said she was looking forward to a summer with fewer tourists.
"I've lived in Vacationland most of my life and often during the best time of year I can't find a room anywhere and the beaches are crowded, there's no parking," Arata said. "So, on the bright side, I look forward to taking my family and having some staycations in Maine ... and I think that other Mainers will do the same thing."
Filling the gap with tourists from other states may not be easy.
Ouellette said that the overall drop in international tourism will cause larger states, including New York, Florida, California and Texas, to also ramp up marketing efforts aimed at U.S. tourists.
Ouellette said that about 80% of tourists drive to Maine, and other states will be targeting the same travelers in the greater New England and mid-Atlantic areas.
"Everyone targets that market heavily," she said. "So it will be a very competitive landscape, particularly with destinations up and down the East Coast looking to target that same drive market."
Copy the Story Link
Hashtags

Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles


The Hill
10 minutes ago
- The Hill
Vance on LA unrest: Newsom should ‘look in mirror' and stop blaming Trump
Vice President JD Vance on Tuesday tore into California Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) for suggesting the unrest in Los Angeles is a consequence of federal involvement in state and local law enforcement efforts. 'Gavin Newsom says he didn't have a problem until Trump got involved,' Vance wrote in a post on X, attaching two photos that he said were taken before Trump ordered the National Guard to protect border patrol agents in California. One depicted rioters appearing to attack a 'border patrol' van, and another depicted a car set ablaze. The Hill was not able to verify the authenticity of the photos. 'Does this look like 'no problem'?' Vance asked. Vance suggested Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass 'fomented and encouraged the riots,' with the goal of promoting mass migration into the U.S., adding, 'It is their reason for being.' 'If you want to know why illegal aliens flocked to your state, stop accusing Donald Trump. Look in the mirror,' Vance said. 'If you want to know why border patrol fear for their lives over enforcing the law, look in the mirror.' Vance pointed to California's Medicaid expansion last year to low-income undocumented immigrants as an example of a policy that has 'encouraged mass migration into California.' Newsom has since proposed ending new Medicaid enrollment for undocumented adults, but his proposal faces resistance from the state legislature. 'Your policies that protected those migrants from common sense law enforcement. Your policies that offered massive welfare benefits to reward illegal immigrants. Your policies that allowed those illegal migrants (and their sympathizers) to assault our law enforcement. Your policies that allowed Los Angeles to turn into a war zone,' Vance continued. 'You sure as hell had a problem before President Trump came along. The problem is YOU,' Vance added. Vance's post is the latest in a back-and-forth between the administration and Newsom, who has resisted Trump's extraordinary steps to deploy 4,000 National Guard troops to the area and mobilize 700 active-duty marines. Newsom has insisted that the situation was under control before the Trump administration escalated tensions by making a provocative show of force. He accused Trump of 'intentionally causing chaos, terrorizing communities and endangering the principles of our great democracy.' After Trump suggested his border czar arrest Newsom, the California governor responded by saying, 'The President of the United States just called for the arrest of a sitting Governor. This is a day I hoped I would never see in America.' 'I don't care if you're a Democrat or a Republican this is a line we cannot cross as a nation — this is an unmistakable step toward authoritarianism,' Newsom added Monday afternoon. Vance then replied to Newsom, saying, 'Do your job. That's all we're asking.' 'Do YOUR job. We didn't have a problem until Trump got involved. Rescind the order. Return control to California,' Newsom responded, prompting Vance's latest response.


Business Upturn
11 minutes ago
- Business Upturn
Ontario, Canada Filtration Manufacturer Camfil Demonstrates Significant Cost Savings for Ontario School Air Filtration Systems
Toronto, Ontario, June 10, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Camfil Canada, a leading provider of commercial and industrial air filtration solutions, today announced the publication of a comprehensive case study demonstrating substantial cost savings achieved through advanced air filter implementation in Ontario school facilities. The research highlights how Canadian educational institutions can reduce operational expenses while improving indoor air quality for students and staff. Addressing Canadian School Air Quality Challenges Ontario schools face unique air quality management challenges, including extreme seasonal temperature variations, budget constraints, and increasing focus on student health and improving the learning environment. The new case study provides a detailed analysis of how proper air filter selection and implementation can address these challenges while delivering measurable financial benefits. 'Canadian schools operate under significant budgetary pressures while maintaining responsibility for student and staff health,' said Joshua Gutherie, Air Quality Expert at Camfil Canada. 'Our case study demonstrates that investing in high-efficiency air filtration technology delivers both improved air quality and substantial cost savings for Ontario schools.' Documented Cost Savings in Ontario Educational Facilities The published case study presents a detailed financial analysis of implementing the plan for Ontario schools, including: ● Energy Cost Reductions: Quantified savings in heating and cooling expenses through improved HVAC system efficiency ● Maintenance Cost Decreases: Reduced filter replacement frequency and HVAC system maintenance requirements ● Extended Equipment Life: Protection of HVAC systems leading to deferred capital replacement costs ● Operational Efficiency Improvements: Streamlined maintenance procedures and reduced labour requirements The study specifically addresses the impact of Ontario's energy costs and seasonal operational demands on the performance and economics of school air filtration systems. Supporting Student Health and Learning Outcomes Beyond cost savings, the case study documents improvements in indoor air quality that directly benefit student health and academic performance. Research continues to demonstrate the connection between improved air quality and enhanced learning environments, making air filtration investments valuable from both financial and educational perspectives. 'Ontario schools are increasingly recognizing that air quality investments support both fiscal responsibility and educational excellence,' noted Guthrie. 'Our case study provides the data and analysis that school boards need to make informed decisions about air filtration technology.' Advanced Filtration Solutions for Canadian Schools The case study features a detailed analysis of air filtration technologies specifically suited to Canadian educational environments, including: ● High-Efficiency Particulate Filters: Engineered to handle Ontario's seasonal allergen and particulate loads while minimizing energy consumption ● Extended Service Life Filters: Designed to maintain performance despite challenging Canadian environmental conditions. This includes fewer replacements, with some filters lasting up to a year in Ontario schools, compared to three months for competing filters. ● Energy-Efficient Filter Media: Optimized for Canadian HVAC systems and operations ● Each solution addresses the specific requirements of Ontario schools, including compliance with provincial building codes, accommodating extreme temperature variations, and optimizing energy cost savings. Practical Implementation Guidance for Ontario School Boards The published case study provides actionable implementation strategies for Ontario educational facilities, addressing common concerns, including: ● Budget Planning: ROI calculations and payback period analysis for different filter upgrade scenarios ● Seasonal Considerations: Implementation of timing recommendations for Ontario school operational schedules ● Maintenance Training: Guidance for school staff on optimizing filter performance and longevity ● Compliance Requirements: Alignment with Ontario building codes and educational facility standards Supporting Ontario's Educational Infrastructure The case study reflects Camfil Canada's commitment to supporting Ontario's educational sector through practical air quality solutions that address both health and financial priorities. As Ontario schools continue to focus on creating optimal learning environments while managing operational costs, evidence-based air filtration strategies provide measurable benefits. The research also addresses emerging considerations for Ontario schools, including enhanced focus on indoor air quality following public health awareness campaigns and increasing emphasis on energy efficiency in public buildings. Canadian Educational Resource Availability The complete Ontario schools air filtration case study is available now through Camfil Canada's website at The resource includes downloadable implementation guides, cost calculation tools, and technical specifications specifically developed for Canadian educational facilities. About Camfil Canada Ontario, Canada Filtration Manufacturer Camfil Camfil Canada is a leading provider of air filtration solutions for commercial, industrial, and institutional applications across Canada. With comprehensive experience in Canadian building environments, the company provides engineered solutions for challenging air quality requirements, including educational facilities, healthcare institutions, commercial buildings, and industrial operations. The company maintains distribution and service capabilities across Canada, providing technical support, installation guidance, and maintenance services from coast to coast. Camfil Canada is part of the global Camfil Group, recognized worldwide for innovation in air filtration technology and commitment to clean air solutions. For more information about Camfil Canada's educational facility air filtration solutions, visit the Camfil Canada Website or contact the Canadian educational applications team at 905-660-0688. Media Contact: Phillip Ilijevski Camfil Canada Inc. Phone: 437-929-1161 Disclaimer: The above press release comes to you under an arrangement with GlobeNewswire. Business Upturn takes no editorial responsibility for the same.


Axios
13 minutes ago
- Axios
Newsom denies Trump spoke to him before deploying more National Guards
California Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) on Tuesday said President Trump did not speak with him, despite deploying national military personnel to respond to Los Angeles protests. Why it matters: Trump claimed that he had spoken with the governor and criticized his handling of the rallies against Immigration and Customs Enforcement's actions. "There was no call. Not even a voicemail," Newsom said on X. "Americans should be alarmed that a President deploying Marines onto our streets doesn't even know who he's talking to." Driving the news: Trump, speaking to the media on Tuesday, said he last talked with Newsom "a day ago." "Called him up to tell him, got to do a better job," Trump said. "He's doing a bad job, causing a lot of death and a lot of potential death." Reality check: California authorities have not reported any deaths during the protests. A total of 72 people have been arrested over the past weekend, with five police officers being injured, according to local media report on Monday Context: The Marines deployed to LA have not yet responded to immigration protests.