Sen. Murray visits Blaine to hear impacts of trade war on local border communities

U. S. Senator Patty Murray visited Blaine, WA, on April 25 to address the negative impact of Canadian tariffs on local border communities. Mayor Mary Lou Steward reported a staggering 50% drop in Canadian visitors, which has severely affected Blaine's economy. Sales tax revenue is crucial for funding local services, eclipsing property tax receipts nearly two to one.

Surrey Mayor Brenda Locke emphasized that the trade war's ramifications extend beyond finances, affecting the community's way of life. Point Roberts Marketplace owner Ali Hayton noted that 80% of her business comes from Canadian shoppers, raising concerns about the future of her store. The economic shock mirrors the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, according to Laurie Trautman of WWU's Border Policy Research Institute. Murray criticized the Trump administration's derogatory comments and stressed the need for Congress to rein in tariffs. This meeting highlighted the urgent need for policy changes to support local economies suffering from the ongoing trade war.