News & Commentary

WASHINGTON (February 25, 2025) — The U.S. Travel Association announced on Tuesday that William (Bill) J. Hornbuckle, Chief Executive Officer and President of MGM Resorts International, was selected...

America is on the brink of a historic travel surge — but without immediate action, our outdated air travel system will strain under the pressure according to a new report released by the Commission on Seamless and Secure Travel. The report identifies urgent steps needed to ensure President Trump delivers a “golden age of travel” ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games, the 2025 Ryder Cup, and America’s 250th anniversary.

“Howard Lutnick will bring strong leadership to the Department of Commerce as we look ahead to a decade with significant economic opportunity — from the 2025 Ryder Cup to America 250, the 2026 World Cup and the 2028 Olympic Games. With the right policies in place, this mega-decade of events can attract millions of new travelers and generate nearly $100 billion in economic activity for our country."

“We are encouraged by the focus and leadership of President Trump and Secretary Duffy on addressing longstanding challenges in America’s air traffic control system. The travel industry has repeatedly called for greater investments in technology and manpower to build a world-class aviation experience. We are eager to work with the president to build the system Americans deserve, one that can ensure their safety and keep up with a surging demand in air travel.”

New tariffs on Canada could impact Canadian visitation to and spending in the United States. Canada is the top source of international visitors to the United States, with 20.4 million visits in 2024, generating $20.5 billion in spending and supporting 140,000 American jobs. A 10% reduction in Canadian travel could mean 2.0 million fewer visits, $2.1 billion in lost spending and 14,000 job losses.

“Doug Burgum is the kind of strong, results-driven leader we need to oversee our nation’s most iconic public lands—our national parks—which remain a source of deep pride and a key driver of visitation from travelers, domestically and abroad. Under Secretary Burgum’s leadership, and as we look ahead to celebrations of the 250th anniversary of our great nation, we can continue to build on the success of these destinations and strengthen their role in our economy."