California's Cheeky Governor Is Stealing Canada's Heart (And Tourist Dollars)

Photo by Thomas Hawk | License
Move over, maple syrup diplomacy, California Governor Gavin Newsom is serving up some serious shade and tourism marketing realness.
In what can only be described as a masterclass of political trolling, Newsom has launched an international charm offensive aimed squarely at Trump-weary Canadians looking to escape the MAGA madness. His latest video campaign whispers sweet nothings to our northern neighbors, basically saying, “Hey, come visit California, we’re 2,000 miles away from Washington’s nonsense”.
Trump Who?
With anti-Trump sentiment sweeping Canada faster than a Tim Hortons drive-thru, Newsom’s strategy is both hilarious and potentially brilliant. Current polling suggests 59% of Canadians are less likely to visit the United States, with 36% already canceling their travel plans. But our charismatic governor isn’t taking this lying down.
A Vacation Worth Crossing Borders For
In his charmingly passive-aggressive video, Newsom practically winks at Canadian viewers, suggesting that while “You-Know-Who” (we all know who) is stirring up drama in DC, California remains a progressive paradise waiting to be explored. Beach plans, anyone?
Political Chess or Tourism Boost?
While some might see this as just another Newsom publicity stunt (hello, 2028 presidential campaign whispers), others might recognize a savvy attempt to both support California’s tourism industry and low-key resist national political drama. Either way, we’re here for this deliciously sassy international outreach.
So Canadian friends, ready to escape to the land of avocado toast, tech bros, and unapologetic liberalism? California’s waiting, and Gavin’s got the welcome mat out.
AUTHOR: mb
SOURCE: SFist