ST. PAUL, Minn. — Canadians visiting Minnesota are 16% fewer this year in a backlash against President Trump’s continuing insults to Canada. In response Governor Tim Walz has issued a “special invitation” to Canadians: “We want our Canadian neighbors to know they’re not just welcome here, they’re encouraged to visit and continue our long friendship.” Walz made his appeal in paid television commercials airing in Winnipeg, a 835,000-viewer market, and Thunder Bay, 123,000. Minnesota has eight Canada crossings on the 547 -mile border with Manitoba and Ontario. West to east: Lancaster, Pine Creek, Roseau, Warroad, Angel Lake, Baudette, International Falls and Grand Portage.
Why Canadians taking umbrage
Trump has denigrated Canada Prime Minister Mark Carney to his face and insulted several provincial leaders. He has been diminutive in characterizing Canada as a 51st U.S state and threatened annexation. He has falsely accused Canada of banning a U.S bank presence. This all was a shock to Canadian sensitivities – an unprovoked betrayal and an inexplicable assault on Canadian sovereignty. Trump accused Canada of unfair trading despite a history of mutually advantageous tare treaties. He has accused Canada of half-hearted progress against illegal drug traffic into the United States. Ironically Canadian agents last week intercepted 400 pounds of cocaine from Detroit. The street value: $23 million.