New tariffs imposed by the Trump administration on Canadian goods are creating economic uncertainty and becoming a significant issue for businesses and political campaigns in New York's 21st Congressional District, an area heavily reliant on cross-border trade and tourism.
The tariffs, described by some as a departure from the established economic relationship between the U.S. and Canada, are a primary concern for local leaders and business owners. Garry Douglas, CEO of the North Country Chamber of Commerce in Plattsburgh, stated that Canada is not the place to start when readjusting global trade relationships. Plattsburgh, situated about an hour north of Montreal, brands itself as "Montreal's U.S. suburb" and benefits significantly from its economic ties with neighboring Quebec, fostering a manufacturing hub that might otherwise be an agricultural college town.
According to a report from the Canadian embassy in Washington, D.C., the 21st District exported $1.1 billion worth of goods to Canada annually as of April 2026. In response to the U.S. tariffs, Canada is planning retaliatory measures on American products.
Shelyn Peets, owner of a clothing boutique in Massena, N.Y., which is across the border from Cornwall, Ontario, noted that she sources products from two Canadian suppliers. She indicated that increased costs due to tariffs would likely lead her to reduce the volume or frequency of her purchases, passing the added expense on to consumers.
Political Landscape in the 21st District
The economic concerns are playing out against the backdrop of a competitive election in New York's 21st Congressional District. Republican Rep. Elise Stefanik, who has held the seat for over a decade and is an ally of President Trump, is not seeking reelection. Her departure has opened the door for a contest between Republican nominee Anthony Constantino, a manufacturing CEO, and Democratic rival Blake Gendebien, a dairy farmer.
Constantino, who received Trump's endorsement, supports the tariffs, arguing that Canada has "taken advantage of us" and that fair trade is necessary to rebuild American manufacturing. He also highlighted local issues such as job shortages and inadequate high-speed internet and cellphone service as key concerns for his constituents.
Gendebien, on the other hand, has expressed concern that the tariffs are being used as a bargaining chip, negatively impacting the local economy through reduced Canadian tourism. He emphasized the need for a representative who understands the local experience and can address issues like rising costs and rural healthcare.
Douglas, the chamber CEO, reported that both candidates have committed to visiting Montreal and Ottawa if elected, acknowledging the importance of the cross-border relationship. He pointed to the region's ability to replace legacy manufacturing losses with new industries, facilitated by its connection with Canada, as a key factor in its economic resilience compared to other American communities that have faced more significant struggles.