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Ken Brown is a semi-retired business person in Truro, Nova Scotia, Canada.
As a Canadian, I want to extend my appreciation and congratulations to Maine Gov. Janet Mills for her courage in standing up to President Donald Trump.
For many Maritimers, Maine is our first encounter with the United States, and it has long been viewed favorably by almost all of us. The bonds between our regions are strong, and we share not just a border but a deep history of trade, tourism, and personal friendships.
At the present time, however, many Canadians are furious with Donald Trump for his threats and insults directed at our country. We have always considered Americans our neighbors, friends, and allies, but Trump’s rhetoric is eroding that goodwill.
A recent poll found that 27 percent of Canadians now view the United States as an “enemy” — a stunning and unfortunate shift. As a result, a significant number of Canadians have joined an informal but large boycott of American products and travel destinations. The hostility emanating from Trump is not just offensive; it has real economic consequences for American businesses that rely on Canadian consumers.
One of the most outrageous provocations has been Trump’s recent insinuation that Canada should become the 51st U.S. state. Let me be absolutely clear: This is not a joke to us. It is insulting, infuriating, and completely unacceptable. Canada is a proud, independent nation, and such talk is deeply offensive to those of us who cherish our sovereignty.
Trump’s threats of severe economic attacks on Canada only add to our anger. He is actively damaging the relationship between our countries and undermining the decades of cooperation that have benefited both nations.
In this climate, Gov. Mills’ leadership stands out as a beacon of integrity. She has demonstrated a firm commitment to her state and a willingness to push back against the repulsive cult of personality that I believe Trump has fostered. Her resolve contrasts sharply with that of many American politicians who have seemingly chosen cowardice over country. If more leaders — Sen. Susan Collins included — had her backbone, perhaps America would not find itself at the mercy of a man who behaves more like a monarch than a president.
Because of Trump, I will continue to boycott American products, but will feel especially sad to include Maine products in that boycott. Mills has shown that not all American leaders are willing to bow to Trump’s bullying tactics, and for that, she has earned our respect. While I will vigorously avoid spending money on all American products, perhaps I will discreetly allow Maine products into my shopping cart as a small token of support for a state that values integrity over blind loyalty.
The relationship between Canada and the United States is too important to be squandered by one man’s ego. It is leaders like Mills who remind us that there are still principled voices in America, willing to stand up for what is right. I sincerely hope that more American politicians will follow her example before it is too late.
