Trump threatens to block Gordie Howe Bridge opening in new Canada-US rift

The Gordie Howe International Bridge, a $4 billion infrastructure project connecting Windsor, Ontario, to Detroit, Michigan, has emerged as a major flashpoint in strained US-Canada relations. President Donald Trump threatened in a Truth Social post to block its scheduled early 2026 opening, alleging Canada built the bridge with "virtually no US content" and demanding Washington be "fully compensated."

Project Background and Legal Framework

Named after Canadian hockey legend Gordie Howe, the bridge is based on the 2012 Canada-Michigan Crossing Agreement, with Canada financing design and construction—including US-side customs facilities—exceeding $4 billion. Toll revenues are intended to recover costs over time. Each country retains sovereignty over its territory, with the agreement governing operation and maintenance. Trump's first-term joint statement with then-Prime Minister Justin Trudeau expressed support for "expeditious completion" as a "vital economic link."

Canadian Response

Prime Minister Mark Carney said he discussed the dispute directly with Trump, describing their conversation as "positive." Carney explained Canada paid over $4 billion for construction, ownership is shared with Michigan, and both Canadian and US steel and workers are involved. "This is a great example of cooperation between our countries," he said. Trump requested US Ambassador Pete Hoekstra, a Michigan native, help "smooth" discussions.

Political and Economic Fallout

Michigan Senator Elissa Slotkin warned on X: "President Trump's threat tonight to tank it is awful for our state's economy. Canceling this project will have serious repercussions. Higher costs for Michigan businesses, less secure supply chains, and ultimately, fewer jobs." She noted Canada recently made agreements with China after "Trump has kicked them in the teeth for a year." Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens told AM800 News Trump "seems comfortable lying to the general public about how we got to where we got to."

Conflict of Interest Questions

Democrats on the House Oversight Committee opened an investigation Feb. 13 into whether Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick's reported meeting with Matthew Moroun, billionaire owner of the competing Ambassador Bridge, influenced administration actions. The Moroun family has long opposed the new crossing and reportedly contributed to Michigan political campaigns.

Economic Impact

AEG consulting report estimates delaying the bridge opening would cost $7 million per week. Canadian officials maintain construction continues and the bridge will open as planned, though any fundamental governance change would require renegotiating the 2012 agreement.