Trump Vows to Halt Gordie Howe Bridge Opening Until U.S. Receives Full Compensation

President Trump has issued a stern warning regarding the Gordie Howe International Bridge, which connects Detroit to Canada, stating he will obstruct its opening "until the United States is fully compensated for everything we have given them."

In a recent post on Truth Social, Trump expressed his dissatisfaction with Canada, insisting that the nation must "treat the United States with the Fairness and Respect that we deserve." His comments reflect a broader frustration with perceived inequities in trade relations.

"With all that we have given them, we should own, perhaps, at least one half of this asset," Trump asserted, emphasizing the potential revenue from the U.S. market as "astronomical." This statement underscores his belief that American contributions should be recognized in the bridge's ownership structure.

Criticism of Canada was a central theme in Trump's remarks. He pointed out that Ontario has not placed U.S. alcoholic products on its shelves and denounced Canadian tariffs on U.S. dairy products as "unacceptable." Furthermore, he accused Prime Minister Mark Carney of pursuing deals with China, suggesting a lack of loyalty to U.S. interests. Trump lamented that Canada has treated the U.S. "unfairly for decades," particularly highlighting that the bridge is being constructed without U.S. materials like steel.

Construction of the bridge began in 2018, with an anticipated opening in early 2026. The project is a joint venture between Canada and Michigan, with Canada covering the $5.7 billion cost. The Canadian government plans to recover its investment through toll revenues generated by the bridge.

This new crossing aims to alleviate congestion in the busy border area between Michigan and Ontario, especially for commercial trucks. Currently, the Ambassador Bridge and the Detroit-Windsor Tunnel serve as the primary routes across this international boundary.

The bridge features an impressive 853-meter span over the Detroit River, complemented by two approach bridges and port of entry complexes on both sides of the border, along with connections to existing highways.

Inquiries directed to the White House and Carney's office for further comments remain unanswered. Meanwhile, the Windsor-Detroit Bridge Authority has been contacted for their perspective on Trump's statements.

Candace Laing, president and CEO of the Canadian Chamber of Commerce, provided an emailed statement addressing the situation. Additionally, Democratic Senator Elissa Slotkin from Michigan released her own remarks regarding the matter.

Michigan's other senator, Gary Peters, also weighed in with a statement reflecting on the implications of Trump's threats. Representative Debbie Dingell from Michigan's Sixth Congressional District shared her thoughts as well.

Don Ufford, former head of Global Vehicle Engineering at Ford and now a candidate for Michigan's 11th Congressional District, commented on the potential impact of these developments. Michigan Democratic Party chair Curtis Hertel issued a statement that highlighted concerns over trade relations.

Jocelyn Benson, Michigan's current secretary of state and a candidate for governor in upcoming elections, also provided her insights into the ongoing situation surrounding the bridge and its significance for both states.