Border Communities in Upstate New York Fear Permanent Economic Damage from US-Canada Trade War
Residents and officials in upstate New York border towns like Sackets Harbor and Ogdensburg fear that escalating US-Canada tensions, including tariffs and the renaming of Lake Ontario, will cause permanent economic harm. While some locals support President Trump's trade tactics, others note rising costs and declining cross-border traffic, with tourism and bridge revenue dropping significantly in 2025.
Key points
- Mayor Alex Morgia of Sackets Harbor, NY, expressed concern that the US-Canada feud could permanently sever close ties, noting the area's historical significance during the War of 1812.
- Corey Fram, director of the Thousand Islands Regional Tourism Development Corporation, reported a substantial decline in Canadian spending and border crossings since Trump's second election, fearing the drop will not recover.
- Anthony Adamczyk, executive director of the Ogdensburg Bridge and Port Authority, stated that traffic volume decreased by 23% in 2025 compared to 2024, resulting in a 35% drop in toll revenue, or approximately $536,000 lost.
- Local residents in St. Lawrence and Jefferson Counties are divided; some support Trump's tariffs as a way to equalize trade, while others, like Carol and Gary Davis, cite higher grocery and gas prices.
- Republican assemblyman Scott Gray advocated for fair trade deals without animosity, criticizing both White House rhetoric and Ontario Premier Doug Ford's hostile comments, while urging negotiations to resolve issues like dairy market access.
Background
This situation follows a series of escalating disputes between the US and Canada, including the opening of the Gordie Howe Bridge in July 2026 amid toll-sharing disagreements. In August and September 2026, President Trump issued an executive order to rename Lake Ontario to 'Lake America,' sparking backlash from Canadian officials and US voters. Polls indicated broad opposition to both the renaming and 50% tariffs on Canadian goods, with Canada pledging retaliation. The current tensions in upstate New York reflect the broader, sustained friction in cross-border relations that began earlier in the year.
Why it matters
The economic and social fabric of border communities is at risk of permanent damage due to political disputes. Significant drops in tourism and bridge revenue threaten local livelihoods, while divided public opinion highlights the complex impact of trade policies on everyday residents. The fear that cross-border travel numbers may never recover to pre-2024 levels underscores the long-term consequences of current diplomatic and trade conflicts.
What to watch
Local officials and residents are watching for potential shifts in US government policy, particularly ahead of the November midterm elections, which could change the political landscape and pressure the White House to de-escalate tensions. Trade negotiations regarding dairy market access and other irritants are expected to continue, with hopes for resolving disputes without further animosity. The recovery of cross-border tourism and traffic volumes will be closely monitored to determine if the current decline is temporary or permanent.
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