Canadians invite Americans to strengthen friendships despite tensions

Canadians are welcoming Americans but expressing frustration with the U.S. government, particularly former President Donald Trump. Many Canadians feel hurt and angry over Trump's policies that they believe threaten their strong friendship with the U.S. At hockey games, Canadians have booed the American anthem, signaling their discontent. However, they also recognize that many Americans do not support Trump. Recent polling shows that about 60% of Americans oppose annexing Canada, which offers some reassurance to Canadians. Travel between the two countries has dropped sharply, with 500,000 fewer Canadians visiting the U.S. in February compared to last year. This is the lowest number since April 2022, during pandemic restrictions. Nonetheless, the U.S. remains a popular destination for Canadians. In 2023, over 20 million Canadians visited the U.S., contributing significant money to the American economy. Many Canadians, often referred to as "snowbirds," spend months in warmer states like Florida, boosting local businesses. Canadians are concerned about new travel restrictions and reports of mistreatment at the U.S. border. Despite current tensions, there is hope that the friendship between the two countries can be repaired. Canadians want Americans to visit, see their culture, and understand that they have no ill will towards the American people.