Trump Threatens Bridge Opening
Former President Donald Trump has threatened to block the opening of the Gordie Howe Bridge, which connects Detroit, Michigan, to Windsor, Ontario. Trump claimed the United States should own at least half of the bridge and criticized Canada for allegedly controlling both sides.
The bridge, named after Canadian hockey legend Gordie Howe, is expected to open after formal tests and approvals early this year. Construction began in 2018, costing an estimated $6.4 billion CAD, and has been debated for over a decade.
Trump Demands Compensation
On his social media platform, Trump said the U.S. should be “fully compensated for everything we have given” to Canada. He also blamed former President Barack Obama for allowing construction to begin without U.S. steel.
Local Officials Respond
Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens dismissed Trump’s accusations as “insane,” while the Windsor-Detroit Bridge Authority, a Canadian federal Crown corporation managing the project, has not formally commented.
Trade Disputes Fuel Tensions
He also made controversial remarks about Canadian ice hockey and the Stanley CupU.S. Representative Elissa Slotkin countered, saying Canada pursued trade with China partly due to Trump’s previous policies. She emphasized that Canada remains a U.S. friend and promised to support the bridge project.
Economic Impact
Experts warn that delaying the bridge could raise costs for Michigan businesses, weaken supply chains, and reduce jobs. Officials from both countries are working to keep the project on track despite political tensions.
