I've been playing Devil's advocate up til now...not really sure how I felt about these new fees. I've made up my mind. I'm against the idea. I'd rather see Canadians come freely into US and spend their money, helping the economy rather than put up an economic barrier that would probably mean less money flowing into US business. That said, I don't think is necessarily a stupid idea, nor would I criticize Obama for pursuing it.
It is backward for sure! Putting in place policies that discourage behaviour that you are trying to promote...that is backward. And all for what? A few million bucks? Not even a drop in the USA's problem. Canadians are already skeptical of USA's motives in general. To the USA this might be a cash grab for a few million bucks. To Canada, this is one more in a long list of dumb American policies that negatively affect Canadians. In many ways, the sentiment is moving from "friend and ally" to "neighbour".
of course...the Canadians will tell us to go buy their oil from China , because thats where it will be.
Charging to visit is common with communist countries. Welcome to the United Socialist States of America.
The people who put him in power are Republicans. Who were people supposed to vote for the new guy or the 71 year old 3 time cancer survivor and his retarded Barbie Doll running mate? Same thing as in 2004. Bush was ready for the taking but the Democrats run a guy who looks like your alcoholic wood working teacher from grade 9 who has as much charisma as a cardboard box and his philandering running mate. Democrats are responsible for 2nd Bush term. Republicans are responsible for the 1st Obama term. If you don't want a 2nd Obama term. You'd better start grooming an electable candidate on the double.
Well, to put it into perspective, Canadians pay double ( compared to Americans ) for plane tickets because of the outrageous fees and taxes imposed by their own governments and the quasi monopoly enjoyed by their airlines. Airport fees in Canada are a complete outrage. Taxes and fees , and then taxes on the fees. All of which constantly increase. Smart Canadians drive into the US to catch their flights and save hundreds in the process. Who cares about 5$ when you're being taxed hundreds by your own government.