DeSantis Claps Back at Ford as Florida Tourism Hits New Records

Post by : Mina Carter

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has responded to Ontario Premier Doug Ford’s decision to skip his usual winter trip to Florida amid trade tensions. Ford cited U.S. tariffs affecting Ontario’s auto and steel sectors but said he would not tell others to follow his choice.

DeSantis highlighted Florida’s continued tourism growth and recent sports triumphs, noting that the Florida Panthers won consecutive Stanley Cups in 2024 and 2025, while Toronto has not won since 1967.

Visit Florida data shows Canadian visitors dipped slightly in 2025, but overall tourism numbers rose, with Americans making up 91% of total visitors and international travelers increasing 11.4% over the previous year.

Ford encouraged Ontarians to consider vacationing locally to support Canadian businesses while emphasizing that personal choices should not be dictated by political decisions.

“Maybe some families have gone to Florida their whole lives, go to Florida. That’s great,” Ford said. “But I encourage you to stay here and support local tourism. You can’t let the one tyrant change your lives.”

Dec. 17, 2025 12:20 p.m. 268

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