Buffalo, N.Y. (WBEN) - "It's very disappointing from our perspective. Economically it doesn't make any sense," said Niagara Falls Ontario Mayor Jim Diodati, reacting to sweeping tariffs that go in effect Tuesday against America's closest neighbors and trading partners, Canada and Mexico.
"We've had more than 200 years of uninterrupted peace and prosperity and we want that to continue. We don't want to be in this terrible tariff war," he added.
Asked about the biggest impact this is already having, Diodati said Canadians are staying put.
"They're staying home; not feeling welcome. I was at a grocery store and people were saying that they're hurt and feel like they're being punished."
The Mayor acknowledged that there are some things that Canada can do a better job on, at the border.
"Less than 1% of fentanyl comes through Canada. It's the Southern border where the big numbers are. And we're being treated the same?" he asked rhetorically.
Diodati also pointed out it's already being addressed.
The tourism industry is bracing for unknown effects.
"That's our big industry," Diodati said. "In Niagara Falls, we get 14 million people a year. 25% of them are typically Americans. That's the thing that jumps out at me. It's a big concern. Some of the biggest impacts that people will feel almost instantly are going to be vehicles. Cars that are built go back and forth between Canada and the U.S. many times as different parts are put on. It's going to stop the automotive industry overnight in North America.
In addition, Mayor Diodati thinks this could have an impact on the Buffalo Bills and Buffalo Sabres. Two professional sports franchises that draw fans from Southern Ontario.
"There's no question that it will be impacted, especially if Canadians don't feel welcome. Buffalo Bills mania is just as huge here, as it is there. We love Josh Allen. We love the Bills. We love Buffalo. We love the U.S. There's no question this is going to have an impact," he said.