Good morning, and welcome to the Essential California newsletter.
It’s clear that the ongoing tensions between the Trump administration and Canada have led to significant economic repercussions for the tourism-dependent city of Palm Springs, California.
In recent months, Canadian travelers, often referred to as snowbirds, have started canceling their planned vacations to this LGBTQ+ friendly desert destination due to feelings of disrespect stemming from comments and actions made by Trump.
Many Canadians had intended to visit Palm Springs for various reasons, including vacations, winter getaways, music festivals, and visits with friends.
However, their displeasure with the treatment of their country has caused them to voice their disapproval by withdrawing their financial support.
This boycott has not only affected the snowbirds themselves but has also had a devastating impact on the local community.
Businesses and workers in Palm Springs, highly reliant on Canadian tourism, now find themselves scrambling to cope with the economic fallout.
My colleague, Hailey Branson-Potts, has provided a comprehensive analysis of this situation, detailing the perspectives of both the Canadians and the local business owners.
So, what is driving Canadians away from Palm Springs?
Trump’s derogatory comments about Canada, including calling it America’s “51st state,” have not gone unnoticed.
He has a history of mocking former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, referring to him as “governor,” and has even threatened to leverage economic force against the nation.
In February, Trump utilized emergency powers to impose heavy tariffs on Canadian imports, claiming that the influx of illegal drugs — particularly fentanyl — posed a threat to American security.
Furthermore, after a recent 25% tariff on imported automobiles was enacted, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney responded with a retaliatory 25% levy on U.S. vehicle imports, escalating trade tensions.
Canadian consumers are changing their spending habits as a direct result of these political and economic disputes.
Airlines such as Flair Airlines and WestJet have already adjusted their seasonal services, concluding operations between Vancouver and Palm Springs International Airport prematurely this spring.
Jake Ingrassia, spokesman for the airport, confirmed that these changes are a response to shifts in demand and the current operating environment.
Kenny Cassady, a director with Acme House Co., reported that Canadian visitors typically book stays well in advance, often for one to three months.
However, he noted a significant decline in rebookings for next year, a potentially devastating trend that could extend beyond just lodging to include diminished spending at local restaurants and service businesses.
Laura Mezzacapo, an accounting manager for the Vancouver travel agency the Travel Group, expressed that her firm would usually be busy securing spring break and summer vacations for clients eager to visit California.
Since mid-February, however, there has been a marked decline in bookings, with corporate travel down by as much as 70% to 80%.
Instead of considering destinations in the American West, many Canadians are opting for Mexico, underscoring their frustrations.
Mezzacapo highlighted the long-standing relationship between the U.S. and Canada, noting that her country has always been a staunch ally, contributing to mutual security and support.
Feeling disrespected, Canadians are questioning the U.S.’s reliance on their goodwill and financial contributions.
Data from a 2021 study conducted for Visit Greater Palm Springs revealed that Canadians accounted for 7% of second homes in the Coachella Valley, which is significantly higher than any other country outside the U.S.
Moreover, a 2017 report indicated that approximately 303,600 Canadians visited the Coachella Valley that year, injecting more than $236 million into the local economy.
With Canadian tourism in decline, the city of Palm Springs has begun to respond proactively.
Last week, officials unveiled red streetlight banners throughout the downtown area, expressing affection for their northern neighbors with the message “Palm Springs ♥ Canada.”
Mayor Ron deHarte stated that city officials are closely monitoring both sales tax and hotel occupancy rates to gauge the impact.
As the peak snowbird season, which typically runs from January to April, comes to a close, concerns are mounting regarding the wave of cancellations for the upcoming winter.
DeHarte urged that if the current situation persists, proactive measures must be taken to counteract any negative effects stemming from actions in Washington, D.C.
“Is it concerning? Certainly. Canada is consistently our number one travel source,” he acknowledged.
For more in-depth coverage on this developing story, please refer to the full piece that delves into the intricate dynamics at play.
As Californians navigate the broader implications of these cancellations, other notable news items from the week include:
A plan involving the IRS to share data with ICE that could significantly hurt many immigrants in California, where numerous individuals contribute to tax revenue.
The Supreme Court’s decision to slow Trump’s mass deportations, albeit without halting them entirely, has also raised concerns among immigrant communities.
Additionally, an immigration judge recently ruled that Columbia University activist Mahmoud Khalil could be deported, showcasing the ongoing controversies regarding immigration enforcement.
Compounding these issues, a judge labeled it “extremely troubling” that the U.S. could not provide information regarding a mistakenly deported person.
In relation to the Trump administration’s policies, they announced they would exempt certain electronics from reciprocal tariffs, though confusion remains over the implications this may have on trade.
President Trump’s executive order aimed at increasing U.S. timber production includes all of California’s national forests, eliciting mixed reactions from environmentalists.
In defiance of Trump’s orders, California officials are working to certify that all school districts have successfully eliminated Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs.
Furthermore, the new director of the federal prison system appointed by Trump has a checkered history with a troubled state agency under her belt.
Turning to Los Angeles County, lingering impacts from recent wildfires are evident.
Dark, ashy sediment remains on beaches, but officials have assured the public that there is no health risk.
Southern California Edison theorizes that a dormant power line may have sparked the Eaton fire, prompting inspections and soil testing for contamination in areas affected by recent fires.
In an effort to address fire safety, Edison is planning to bury over 150 miles of power lines following the devastation caused by the fires.
In crime and public safety, a former LAPD officer has confessed to murder following a DUI crash that led to the deaths of three individuals.
Violence erupted at an In-N-Out location in Southern California, resulting in gunfire and a massive brawl involving upwards of 30 people at the restaurant.
Moreover, a prominent hair mogul’s wife has been found guilty of murder in a case involving an intricate love triangle.
Outside of these significant stories, the California DMV has opened early to assist individuals seeking a Real ID in advance of the May 7 deadline.
In science news, researchers claim to have ‘de-extincted’ dire wolves, although experts at the La Brea Tar Pits have expressed skepticism regarding these claims.
In cultural news, the Venezuelan band that captured a generation in exile discusses their journey through adversity.
Also, a Los Angeles firefighter is advocating for awareness surrounding a rare birthing complication that tragically led to the death of his wife.
As we wrap up, it’s important to note that credit card debts do not automatically disappear upon death, a reality that many may overlook.
For those interested in exploring more about these topics, there are resources available for unlimited access to the Los Angeles Times.
In Column One, The Times showcases compelling narratives and long-form journalism.
Among the highlighted pieces is the story of Benito Flores, a retired welder whose life changed dramatically when he joined a protest against homelessness in Los Angeles.
In 2020, Flores and others seized abandoned homes in El Sereno, with hopes of turning forgotten spaces into opportunities for those in need.
After public outcry and negotiations, they were permitted to temporarily stay in the houses, but the arrangement was not permanent.
For additional engaging reads, commentators weigh in on the ongoing implications of Trump’s tariffs and detentions on local tourism.
In light of the political climate, discussions surrounding the future of funding and its impact also emerge.
Moreover, opinions address concerns that tariffs might jeopardize the diversity of L.A.’s culinary landscape, as chefs struggle with rising ingredient prices.
As we aim to tailor this newsletter to better serve you, feedback is always welcomed.
For those looking for weekend plans, Amanda Gorman, a renowned poet, recommends enjoying the sunshine at Santa Monica Pier as part of her ideal Sunday.
Los Angeles offers fascinating curbside tours of the most iconic television houses, providing a glimpse into Hollywood history.
If mental wellness is on your mind, there are various curated escapes within driving distance of Los Angeles.
Movie enthusiasts can check out the review of ‘The Amateur’, a film featuring Rami Malek which unfortunately fell short of expectations.
Instead of heading out, you might want to explore chilling in with a new biography on underground comix pioneer Robert Crumb.
Alternatively, ‘Black Mirror’s’ ambitious episode featuring ‘USS Callister’ continues to captivate viewers on Netflix.
Lastly, revisit Don Draper territory with Jon Hamm’s performance in ‘Your Friends & Neighbors’ available on AppleTV.
For those eager to try something new this weekend, here’s a delightful recipe for brown butter banana cookies that are egg-free, perfect for a quick treat.
Additionally, do not miss out on our daily crossword puzzle, Sudoku, and word searches to keep your mind engaged.
In the L.A. Affairs section, a poignant story unfolds about a widow navigating the world of online dating after years of solitude.
After initial frustrations with unsatisfactory responses, hope reignites with a message from a man named Carlo, leading to an enchanting meeting.
As we approach the end of our update, we wish everyone a wonderful weekend filled with engaging stories and community connections.
Thank you for your readership.
Andrew J. Campa, reporter
Monte Morin, assistant managing editor
image source from：https://www.latimes.com/california/newsletter/2025-04-13/canadians-are-boycotting-palm-springs-due-to-trump-provocations-essential-california
