NEXUS Applications Plunge as Canadians Shun U.S. Travel

The number of Canadian applications for the NEXUS trusted-traveller program has fallen sharply since U.S. President Donald Trump returned to office. New data from the Canada Border Services Agency shows applications were nearly half in 2025 compared to 2024.

In 2025, under 350,000 Canadians applied for NEXUS, down from about 700,000 the year before. The drop comes as many Canadians rethink travel and border crossings to the United States amid political tensions and economic concerns.

What NEXUS Is and Why It Matters

The NEXUS program allows pre-approved travellers to speed through border crossings and airport security between Canada and the U.S. It is administered jointly by Canadian and U.S. authorities and includes strict background checks.

Most NEXUS members are Canadian. The sharp decrease marks a significant shift in cross-border travel interest.

Signs Canadians Are Avoiding the U.S.

The drop in NEXUS applications adds to broader evidence that Canadians are avoiding the U.S. Travel data shows cross-border visits fell sharply in 2025. Statistics Canada reported a 30.9 per cent drop in Canadian vehicles crossing into the U.S. in 2025 versus 2024.

Polls also show many Canadians plan to avoid travel south for at least the next year. Political tensions, tariffs, and heated rhetoric appear to have shaped these decisions.

Political and Social Factors at Play

Observers link the trend to strained Canada–U.S. relations since Trump’s return to the presidency. Some Canadians have expressed discomfort with U.S. policy changes, border practices, and broader political shifts in Washington.

Critics have also noted changes such as the U.S. no longer accepting the “X” gender marker on NEXUS applications, forcing applicants to choose “M” or “F.” This may have discouraged some travellers.

Impact on Travel and Tourism

The decline in NEXUS interest highlights how travel habits have shifted. Many Canadians now choose alternative destinations for vacations.

Airlines and travel agencies have reported fewer bookings to U.S. cities. The drop in travel may also affect tourism revenue on both sides of the border.

As tensions continue, Canadian travel patterns could further change, with long-term effects on cross-border ties and economic activity.

Celebrities Condemn Deaths During Minnesota ICE Surge

A growing list of celebrities has spoken out after two deadly shootings involving federal agents in Minneapolis. Actors and musicians publicly condemned the violence and urged action.

“The Last of Us” star Pedro Pascal and singer Billie Eilish were among the most vocal. Their statements came as protests and national outrage gained momentum over the incidents in Minnesota.

Social Media Outrage and Calls for Justice

Pascal shared multiple social media posts about the deaths of Alex Pretti and Renee Good, both killed in confrontations with immigration agents. He posted artwork and messages calling for truth and accountability. He wrote that Americans deserved to know what happened.

Billie Eilish also posted several stories online. She called Pretti “a real American hero” and challenged other high-profile figures to speak up about the events. Eilish highlighted perceived silence among celebrities who had not yet condemned the shootings.

Singer Katy Perry urged her followers to contact U.S. senators and oppose continued funding for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Several stars encouraged fans to take civic action and demand accountability from leaders.

Broader Hollywood Response

The wave of celebrity comments expanded over the weekend. Jamie Lee Curtis and Edward Norton echoed concerns and called for a general strike against the federal response. Natalie Portman and Olivia Wilde appeared at the Sundance Film Festival with “ICE Out” pins to show solidarity with protesters.

Other entertainers, including Mark Ruffalo and Glenn Close, condemned the actions of federal agents. Ruffalo called Pretti’s death “cold-blooded murder” and criticized how authorities portrayed the situation.

Public Reaction and Impact

The celebrity involvement has amplified national attention on the Minnesota shootings and the federal immigration enforcement surge. Their statements have prompted broader discussions about law enforcement conduct and civil liberties.

Many public figures used their platforms to encourage followers to engage with lawmakers and support community groups advocating for reform and accountability.

Toronto Digs Out After Record-Breaking Snowfall

Toronto is beginning a massive cleanup after a historic winter storm blanketed the city. The storm dumped record amounts of snow across Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area.

Environment Canada confirmed the snowfall ranked among the heaviest in city history. Several neighbourhoods reported more than 60 centimetres of accumulation.

At Pearson International Airport, daily snowfall reached a new record. January has now become the snowiest month recorded at the airport.

Travel and Daily Life Disrupted

The heavy snowfall caused major disruptions across the city. Hundreds of flights were cancelled at Pearson International Airport.

Road conditions remained dangerous as snow covered highways and local streets. Drivers faced long delays and poor visibility.

Public transit services experienced widespread interruptions. Subway closures and shuttle buses added to commuter frustration.

School boards across Toronto closed for the day. City officials urged residents to avoid non-essential travel.

City Activates Major Snow Response

Toronto activated its Major Snowstorm Condition to manage the cleanup. Parking restrictions were enforced on designated snow routes.

Snowplows and removal crews worked around the clock. Officials said clearing main roads remains the top priority.

Residential streets and sidewalks may take several days to clear. City officials asked residents to remain patient.

Mayor Olivia Chow thanked frontline workers for their efforts. She encouraged residents to help neighbours where possible.

Why the Storm Was So Severe

Meteorologists said the storm formed when Arctic air met moisture from Lake Ontario. The interaction produced prolonged and intense snowfall.

The system stalled over southern Ontario, increasing accumulation. Weather experts called the event highly unusual.

Recovery Expected to Take Time

City officials warned that full recovery will take days. Snowbanks and icy conditions may continue to affect mobility.

Toronto continues monitoring weather conditions closely. Crews will shift from plowing to snow removal as conditions improve.

The storm has raised new concerns about winter preparedness. Residents now brace for lingering impacts across the city.

Trump Sends Border Czar to Minnesota After Deadly Shooting

U.S. President Donald Trump has sent border czar Tom Homan to Minnesota following another deadly shooting linked to federal immigration operations. Trump announced the move amid rising protests and political pressure.

The decision comes after a Minneapolis man was fatally shot during a recent federal operation. The incident follows another deadly shooting involving federal agents earlier this month.

Public anger has grown across Minnesota. Community leaders and residents have questioned the federal presence and the use of force.

Homan to Oversee Federal Immigration Operations

The White House said Tom Homan will oversee immigration enforcement efforts in the state. His role includes coordinating with local and state authorities.

Officials say the goal is to improve communication and restore public order. The administration believes stronger coordination will reduce tensions.

Trump described Homan as experienced and firm. He said Homan will report directly to him.

Growing Protests and Local Backlash

The shootings have triggered protests in Minneapolis and nearby cities. Demonstrators have called for an end to large-scale federal operations.

Local leaders have raised concerns about public safety. Some say the enforcement actions have increased fear rather than reduced crime.

Several officials have demanded independent investigations. They want clarity on how the shootings occurred.

Federal Response Under Scrutiny

The administration faces mounting political pressure. Lawmakers from both parties have asked for greater transparency.

Trump said his government will review the incidents. He defended the broader immigration strategy while acknowledging public concerns.

Some federal agents are expected to reduce their visible presence. Enforcement operations, however, will continue.

Impact on Minnesota and National Debate

The situation has intensified debate over immigration enforcement nationwide. Minnesota has become a focal point in that discussion.

Trump’s decision signals a shift in approach. The administration appears focused on regaining control and public trust.

The coming days may shape future federal operations. Officials remain under pressure to prevent further violence.

Carney Defends Davos Speech Amid U.S. Criticism

Prime Minister Mark Carney has firmly defended his speech at the World Economic Forum in Davos. He rejected claims that he softened his position after pressure from the United States.

Carney said he meant exactly what he said in Davos. He stated that his message remains unchanged and clear.

Key Message from the Davos Address

Carney spoke about growing global instability and shifting power dynamics. He warned that the traditional rules-based international order is under strain.

He emphasized the role of middle-power nations like Canada. He said cooperation among these countries is essential for global stability.

Carney did not mention the United States directly. However, many observers interpreted the speech as criticism of current U.S. policies.

U.S. Officials Push Back

After the speech, senior U.S. officials claimed Carney walked back his remarks. They said he softened his tone during a phone call with U.S. President Donald Trump.

These statements quickly drew attention in both countries. The comments raised questions about diplomatic tensions between Ottawa and Washington.

Carney Rejects Claims of Retreat

Carney publicly denied any retreat from his position. He said he did not retract or amend his Davos remarks.

He told reporters that his message was consistent. He stressed that Canada will continue to speak honestly on global issues.

Carney added that strong alliances allow room for disagreement. He said respectful dialogue remains essential between close partners.

Trump Responds Publicly

President Trump later criticized Carney’s speech. He claimed Canada benefits heavily from its relationship with the United States.

Carney responded by reaffirming Canada’s sovereignty. He said Canada makes significant contributions to global trade and security.

Impact on Canada–U.S. Relations

The exchange highlights rising tension between the two countries. Analysts say it reflects wider uncertainty in global diplomacy.

Carney’s response signals a more assertive Canadian approach. His government appears ready to defend its views internationally.

The episode underscores Canada’s intent to maintain an independent voice on the world stage.