Nevada Hotel Owner Raises Concerns Over Declining Canadian Tourism Ahead of US Midterm Elections

A hotel owner in Nevada, United States, has raised concerns over a decline in international visitors, particularly Canadians, saying the drop in tourism is putting pressure on small businesses ahead of the country's midterm elections.

Elizabeth Woolsey, owner of Stargazer Inn and Bristlecone General Store in Baker, Nevada, said the decline in international travel, which she attributed to the actions of the current US administration, was affecting businesses that depend heavily on visitors.

Small Businesses Feel Tourism Decline

Speaking on CTV's Your Morning, Woolsey explained that even a five per cent drop in tourism could have a significant impact on small businesses.

She said Baker, a community of about 100 people near the Utah border, relies on tourism, particularly visitors heading to Great Basin National Park, to sustain local businesses.

Woolsey also identified higher prices linked to tariffs and cuts to national park budgets as additional challenges facing her business.

Hotel Owner Urges Voters to Consider Economic Impact

With Americans preparing to vote in the midterm elections, Woolsey urged voters to consider candidates who would serve the interests of citizens and support stronger international relations.

The elections include all 435 seats in the US House of Representatives, 35 Senate seats and 36 governorships, including the governorship of Nevada.

She expressed hope that voters would support changes that could improve relations with other countries and help restore international tourism.

Canadians Still Welcome, Business Owner Says

Despite the challenges, Woolsey said she wants Canadian and other international visitors to continue feeling welcome in her community.

She explained that whenever Canadian visitors arrive at her store, staff ring a bell and offer them free coffee and a muffin as a gesture of appreciation.

Woolsey said the gesture is intended to reassure visitors that they remain welcome, despite tensions surrounding the policies of the current US administration.

CTV News