Anxiety over tariffs weighs on both sides of New Brunswick-Maine border

The annual International Homecoming Festival in St. Stephen, N.B. celebrates the deep connections between the Canadian province and the state of Maine. Elected officials like Chellie Pingree, the Democratic congresswoman for Maine’s 1st congressional district, emphasize the importance of the relationship between the two neighbours.

Pingree highlights the close commercial, economic, and cultural ties between Maine and Canada, expressing a desire to maintain and strengthen this cross-border relationship. She reassures Canadians that they are always welcome in Maine and stresses the importance of promoting friendship across borders.

However, the threat of tariffs has strained the relationship between the United States and Canada, eliciting a strong negative reaction from Canadians. Kristin Vekasi, a political scientist at the University of Maine, acknowledges the significance of the relationship between the two nations and emphasizes the need for hard work to rebuild trust that has been damaged by the tariff threats.

Maine, in particular, would be severely impacted by a trade war with Canada, as the state heavily relies on Canadian exports and imports. Amir Mousavian, a professor of supply chain management, warns of the potential consequences of tariffs on fuel prices and the tourism industry in Maine.

While some elected officials like Jared Golden support Trump’s tariffs as a pushback against free trade and globalization, others like Rep. Pingree are critical of the rhetoric surrounding the tariff threats. She dismisses Trump’s mention of security concerns at the Maine-New Brunswick border as more about rhetoric than actual policy.

Despite the challenges posed by tariff threats, Joseph Underwood, a Republican state representative, believes that the historic, family, and cultural ties between Aroostook County in Maine and Canada will endure beyond the current issues. These strong ties serve as a foundation for the continued relationship between New Brunswick and Maine.

In conclusion, the International Homecoming Festival serves as a reminder of the enduring connections between New Brunswick and Maine, despite the current challenges facing the relationship. It is essential for both sides to work towards rebuilding trust and maintaining the strong bonds that have been established over time.