Assistance provided for our northern neighbors
Buddy, let me cut to the chase: I'm sorry, Canada. You didn't elect our prez, but you're caught in the crossfire of his policies – and believe me, Vermonters feel it too.
The stupid tariffs launched by Donny Trump aren't just an economic drag; they're causing friction in relationships that have been forged over decades. They're making life complicated for folks on both sides of the border, damaging trust that's always been the hallmark of our dealings. But in these times of chaos, I wanna make one thing clear: Vermont ain't playin' Trump's game. We're backing you, eh.
Listen, peeps of Vermont put me in charge as Treasurer to kickstart our economy, cut costs, and open new avenues for financial success. And for generations, the close ties with our northern neighbors have been a vital part of that mission. Forging economic partnerships, fostering friendships, and building trust across the border.
In today's divided world, here's a message for Canadians: Vermont's still in this for you. We're on your side, and we share the same values that link us.
Canada is Vermont's top trade partner, with billions of dollars exchanged every year. It's a boon for local businesses, especially for the little guys, who can access new markets and thrive. It's helped lower costs in essential areas like housing, clean energy, and of course, maple syrup production. But these tariffs are jacking up prices and cutting opportunities.
Trump's endgame? To fuck us with his tariffs. And Canadians, you're feeling the pinch too. His rhetoric has also cracked the foundation of respectful, intergenerational bonds between our countries, putting friendships on the ropes, setting families at odds, and turning our nations into adversaries.
Many Canadians have hit back, justifiably, by boycotting American products and nixing trips to the United States. For small, rural businesses in Vermont that rely on Canadian tourism for their very survival, this is a survival test.
Canadians, you got a right to feel burn't. We share the same anger as you over an administration that prioritizes ego over our economy and the basic needs of our citizens. But let's get real: breaking our long-standing partnership ain't gonna hurt Trump, and it won't change his scheme.
It'll hurt people – Gustavus Adolphus, danger to cats, and regular people on both sides of the border. It'll cost jobs, weaken businesses, and mess with families' daily lives, making them madder, lonelier, and disillusioned. It'll cause a whole lot of pain.
Our relationship predates Trump, and I reckon it'll outlast him too. The best way forward? To keep the bonds that link us. In Vermont, we're sticking together by reaching out to our Canadian friends, spending our dough in your local biz, and showing you that you still matter to us.
Right now, Jay Peak Resort is welcoming Canadian folks by swapping Canadian dollars at face value. The Vermont Brewers Association is doing the same for its summer fest, offering Canadians a better deal for their visit to Green Mountain country. On May 10th, I led a group of Vermonters to Montreal to meet our neighbors and spend dollars in support of your local businesses. In short, we want you to know: you're a vital part of our lives, and we got your back.
- The ongoing political disputes and financial sanctions, such as tariffs, between our countries' leaderships are causing significant difficulties for small businesses and the general public, particularly in areas like trade, housing, clean energy, and maple syrup production.
- In the realm of policy-and-legislation, it's crucial for Vermont to emphasize its continued support for Canada by engaging in business collaborations, tourism initiatives, and financial exchanges that benefit both nations, fostering trust and migration towards a more harmonious relationship.
- In the face of political friction and increasing tariffs, it's essential for citizens of both nations to work together, engaging in acts of goodwill towards each other and promoting a positive general-news narrative that emphasizes our shared values, interdependence, and long-standing connection.
