New poll finds more Maritime residents planning less travel to the U.S.

Narrative Research continues to canvas residents across three Maritime provinces to determine the impact of Donald Trump’s presidency on their personal travel plans to the U.S. within the next year.

Its latest data (released Feb. 3) found a large increase from the results in December 2024 and revealed that close to two thirds of Maritime residents (62%; up from 37%) expect to travel to the U.S. less because of Donald Trump’s presidency. A quarter said they would travel the same amount, while few expect to travel more (3%).

The results are generally consistent across the three Maritime provinces, but differ by age, with those aged over 55 being the most likely group to say they will curb their travel to the U.S. in the coming year.

Results also show that women are more likely than men to plan to travel less to the U.S. in the coming year.

Why are less Maritime travellers visiting the U.S.?

As for why Maritime residents plan to travel to the U.S. less, the most common reason is related to dissatisfaction or disagreement with Trump’s leadership, values and administration, with half stating this type of sentiment.

A third of those planning to travel less cited safety concerns, including fear of violence, crime, gun culture and public unrest.

In addition, a third cited financial reasons specifically related to tariffs and opposition to Trump’s economic policies.

Other reasons included disapproval of Trump’s personal character, concerns for personal treatment or potential discrimination (particularly for groups such as 2SLGBTQIA+, BIPOC, women and disabled), as well as the impact of a weak Canadian dollar and unfavourable exchange rates and anxiety over unpredictable or sudden changes in laws, policies and travel restrictions.

For more information, visit www.narrativeresearch.ca.