“How Tariffs Hold Mexico & Canada Accountable Like HOA Fines”

In communities across America, homeowners’ associations (HOAs) enforce rules to maintain order and safety. If a homeowner neglects their responsibilities—failing to maintain their property or allowing hazards to persist—the HOA steps in with fines. These fines aren’t arbitrary; they are meant to encourage compliance for the collective good of the neighborhood. Similarly, tariffs imposed by the U.S. on Mexico and Canada serve as economic penalties for failing to uphold border security, a shared responsibility that affects all of North America.

Why Neighboring Countries Must Support One Another

Borders are not just political lines on a map; they are critical zones that require cooperation to ensure safety and economic stability. When one country neglects its responsibility to control crime, drug trafficking, and illegal crossings, the consequences spill over into neighboring nations.

For the United States, the influx of illicit drugs and criminal elements crossing from Mexico, as well as security lapses from Canada, poses a direct threat to American communities. Just as an HOA holds residents accountable for maintaining the safety and appeal of the neighborhood, tariffs serve as a mechanism to pressure neighboring nations into acting responsibly. The expectation is not unreasonable—if Mexico and Canada want the benefits of trade with the U.S., they must also take an active role in border security.

A History of North American Cooperation on Border Security

Despite current challenges, history shows that when the U.S., Mexico, and Canada work together, the results benefit all three nations.

1. Post-9/11 Security Measures – After the September 11 attacks, the three countries collaborated through agreements like the Smart Border Declaration (2001) to enhance security while facilitating trade. These measures demonstrated that balancing security with economic growth is possible when nations cooperate.
2. The Merida Initiative (2008) – This partnership between the U.S. and Mexico allocated funding and resources to combat organized crime and drug trafficking. By working together, both countries saw reductions in cartel-related violence and drug smuggling at various points in time.
3. The Canada-U.S. Safe Third Country Agreement – Designed to manage refugee flows, this agreement illustrates how structured policies between neighbors can create order and security without impeding trade or economic stability.

These examples show that when nations take shared security seriously, they can create ripple effects of positive outcomes. Conversely, when cooperation breaks down, crime and instability rise, just as a neglected home in a neighborhood can bring down property values and safety for everyone.

If America’s borders are not secured and our border patrol does not have the support of our neighbors, well for lack of a better analogy, “There goes the neighborhood!”

The Positive Outcomes of Working Together

If Mexico and Canada take stronger action to curb illegal crossings, drug trafficking, and criminal activity at the borders, the benefits would be significant:

• Reduced Drug Flow into the U.S. – A more secure border means fewer fentanyl-related deaths and less cartel influence.
• Economic Growth and Stability – Stronger security allows for safer and more predictable trade, benefiting businesses and consumers.
• Better Diplomatic Relations – Cooperation strengthens North American unity, making it easier to negotiate trade agreements and other beneficial policies in the future.
• Lower Enforcement Costs – A secure border reduces the strain on U.S. law enforcement and border patrol, allowing taxpayer dollars to be allocated elsewhere.

Tariffs: America’s HOA Fine for Negligence

Tariffs often seem like a complicated economic tool, but in reality, they are a straightforward concept: they are financial consequences imposed to correct undesirable behavior. When a country imposes tariffs on another, it’s akin to an HOA issuing fines to a homeowner who refuses to maintain their property.

• Tariffs incentivize action – Just as a fine compels a homeowner to fix a broken fence or clear hazardous debris, tariffs push nations to prioritize border security.
• Tariffs are reciprocal – Mexico and Canada already impose tariffs on American goods, just as HOAs charge dues and fines to all members, not just specific residents.
• Tariffs fund enforcement efforts – The revenue generated from tariffs can be reinvested into border security initiatives, making it a self-sustaining mechanism.

Media Misrepresentation and the Political Narrative

Legacy media outlets often frame tariffs as aggressive economic warfare rather than as reasonable consequences for inaction. In the case of President Trump’s tariff proposals, the media paints them as reckless and harmful to trade. However, when examined through the lens of common sense and reciprocity, tariffs emerge as a necessary tool to enforce responsibility. If the U.S. would be expected to step up its border security if the roles were reversed, then Mexico and Canada should be held to the same standard.

Conclusion

Just as an HOA fine isn’t about punishing homeowners but about maintaining the safety and well-being of the neighborhood, tariffs are not about economic hostility—they are about ensuring that all parties fulfill their responsibilities. If Mexico and Canada want to enjoy the benefits of free trade with the U.S., they must also contribute to securing the North American region. Cooperation, accountability, and shared responsibility are the foundation of a safe and prosperous neighborhood—whether in a local community or across international borders.

As the President of my neighborhood HOA for over a decade, I can relate to how HOA fines and dues are not always met with a positive mindset by all residents. However, it is important to recognize the crucial role that security plays in our neighborhoods, just as it does at our national borders.

Consider this scenario: If you live in a gated community, the developer installed walls and gates as an added measure of security. You purchased your home with the expectation that these security features would protect you and your family from intruders, criminals, and vandals. The front gate and guardhouse serve a critical function, ensuring that guests, workers, prospective buyers, and visitors enter through a monitored point, keeping your community safe.

Now, think of our nation’s border walls and points of entry in the same way. Just as you wouldn’t expect—or welcome—people climbing over your fence, trespassing in your backyard, or sneaking into your community, you shouldn’t expect or welcome individuals who enter our country illegally, bypassing legal entry points.

Common sense tells us that if someone is willing to break the law to enter a country they wish to live in—despite legal processes being available—it raises concerns about their intentions and trustworthiness. That’s certainly not the best way to establish a positive new neighborly relationship, is it?