Canada Votes, Palm Springs Listens: Why Our Desert Keeps an Eye on the North
It might seem strange that an election happening thousands of miles away in Canada could matter here in sunny Palm Springs — but it does. In fact, it matters quite a lot.
Canada just held its federal election on April 28–29, 2025, adding new seats to their government and choosing new leaders. While most Americans may not follow Canadian politics, what happens in Ottawa can shape what happens right here in the Coachella Valley.
Here’s why.
Snowbirds Bring More Than Sunshine
Every winter, Palm Springs sees a wave of Canadian visitors. They’re called “snowbirds” — people who fly south when it gets too cold back home. But they don’t just vacation here. They buy homes, stay in hotels, eat at restaurants, play golf, and shop at local stores.
They also pay for healthcare services, attend festivals, and even join local clubs. In many neighborhoods, Canadians make up a large part of the winter community. They’re not just tourists — they’re temporary neighbors.
When Politics Shift, So Does Spending
Depending on who wins in Canada’s elections, things like taxes, interest rates, and the value of their currency (the Canadian dollar) can change. This affects how much money Canadians have and how far it goes when they travel.
For example:
If the Canadian dollar drops in value, a $5 coffee in Palm Springs suddenly feels like $7 to a Canadian.
If Canada raises taxes on foreign-owned homes, fewer Canadians might invest in property here.
If travel becomes more expensive, fewer might come at all.
In other words, what happens in Canada can mean more — or fewer — dollars spent at local restaurants, stores, and real estate offices.
New Government, New Rules?
With the 2025 election complete and Canada’s Parliament now expanded to 360 seats, the balance of power could shift. New rules could be introduced that make it harder (or easier) for Canadians to live part-time in the U.S., invest in real estate, or take extended vacations.
Even small changes in Ottawa can create big ripples across borders — especially in places like Palm Springs that depend on seasonal visitors.
Keeping the Welcome Mat Out
Palm Springs businesses are keeping a close eye on all of this. Many are already making changes — offering travel incentives, running ads in Canadian cities, and creating packages to make visits more affordable.
They know that keeping our Canadian friends happy means keeping our local economy strong during the winter months.
It’s More Than Economics — It’s Community
The truth is, Canadians bring more than money. They bring energy, diversity, and culture. They support charities. They build friendships. They help make Palm Springs what it is.
That’s why we pay attention to what’s happening in Canada. Because when they thrive — we thrive.
Final Thought
So next time you hear someone say, “Why should we care about the Canadian election?” — tell them this:
Because here in Palm Springs, their vote affects our visitors, our neighborhoods, our economy, and even our way of life.
And when it comes to our snowbird friends, we always want to keep the sun shining.
