Canadian Leaders Voice Strong Opposition to Trump's Threat Against Gordie Howe Bridge
Canadian political and business leaders have expressed firm opposition to US President Donald Trump's recent threat to stall the opening of the nearly completed Gordie Howe International Bridge, according to local media reports on Monday, February 9, 2026. The bridge, which connects Windsor, Ontario, and Detroit, Michigan, represents a critical infrastructure project for North American trade.
Vital Economic Corridor at Stake
The Gordie Howe International Bridge will serve as the third crossing at the Windsor-Detroit gateway, a corridor that handles approximately 25 percent of all bilateral trade between Canada and the United States. This route is particularly essential for the North American automotive industry, functioning as a key artery for vehicle parts and finished goods. The project's significance extends beyond local benefits, impacting regional economic stability and international supply chains.
Mayor Dilkens Criticizes Trump's Stance
Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens sharply criticized President Trump for overlooking the mutual interests of both nations. "It's just insane, when I read that post, I can't believe what I'm reading," Dilkens stated. "It's just another speed bump that Donald Trump has put in the way of doing good things, not just for our country but for his as well." In response to Trump's claim that no American products were used in the construction, Dilkens clarified that American steel was indeed utilized on the US side of the project, highlighting the collaborative nature of the endeavor.
Business Leaders Warn of Self-Defeating Move
Candace Laing, president and CEO of the Canadian Chamber of Commerce, issued a statement warning that blocking the bridge's opening would be a "self-defeating" action. "Whether this proves real or simply threatened to keep uncertainty high, blocking or barricading bridges is a self-defeating move," Laing emphasized. "The path forward isn't deconstructing established trade corridors; it's actually building bridges." Her comments underscore the broader economic implications of such a decision, potentially disrupting long-standing trade partnerships.
Funding and Future Plans
The Gordie Howe International Bridge project is primarily funded by the Canadian federal government, with an investment of 6.4 billion Canadian dollars (approximately US$4.7 billion). Canada plans to recover these costs through future toll revenues, which are scheduled to be shared with the state of Michigan once the initial investment is fully recouped. This financial arrangement reflects a cooperative approach to infrastructure development, aimed at benefiting both sides of the border.
Trump's Reversal and Demands
Earlier on Monday, President Trump voiced complaints on his social media platform, alleging that Canada has treated the United States "unfairly" regarding trade. He asserted that the United States should own "at least one half" of the asset and threatened to block its opening unless compensation is provided. This rhetoric marks a sharp reversal from Trump's first term in 2017, when he endorsed the bridge as a "vital economic link between our two countries," highlighting the evolving nature of cross-border relations under his administration.
