Governor Janet Mills (D-Maine) is signaling her disapproval of the Trump Administration’s rocky relationship with Canada by using taxpayer funds to put up welcome signs in French for Canadians in the hope that the welcoming message will encourage them to vacation in Maine.
“Maine and Canada share deep cultural, economic, and family ties. As uncertain federal policy and harsh words toward Canada test those ties, we want our Canadian friends to know that they are always welcome in Maine,” said Gov. Mills.
“A sign can’t stop harmful policies or rhetoric coming from Washington, but it can send a simple but powerful message– here in Maine, we value our neighbors, we will always treat them with respect, and we welcome them warmly to our state,” she added.
Mills expressed concerns that deteriorating U.S.-Canada relationships, prompted by President Donald Trump’s tariffs, his comments about Canada becoming the 51st state, and Canada’s failure to stop fentanyl from flowing into the U.S., could lead to a loss for Maine businesses.
According to the Maine Office of Tourism, Canadians contributed $497.7 million to the Maine economy, but some businesses are reporting a downturn in Canadian tourists spending money in the state.
Mills’ plan to fix this looming economic problem? Virtue-signaling, specifically with signs.
The first sign was set up on Tuesday along Interstate 195 in Old Orchard Beach. More signs are set to be built around the state’s border crossings with both Canada and New Hampshire.
Businesses can also apply to receive a free sign, in the hope that a mass-produced welcome message will inspire Canadians to alter their vacation plans.
Gov. Mills, along with a bipartisan group of five governors from New England and New York, is set to meet with Canadian premiers in June to discuss tourism and trade under the new administration.
