Trump threatens to block opening of US-Canada bridge

February 10, 2026

President Trump has threatened to prevent the opening of the Gordie Howe International Bridge between Ontario and Michigan unless the United States receives full compensation for its contributions to the project. The bridge, which has been under construction since 2018 at an estimated cost of $6. 4 billion CAD, was entirely funded by Canada but will be jointly owned by Canada and Michigan.

Who is affected

Michigan businesses, workers, and economy
Canadian government and Windsor-Detroit Bridge Authority
Ontario province and the city of Windsor
Michigan state government
Democratic Senator Elissa Slotkin
Democratic Governor Gretchen Whitmer
The Moroun family (owners of the neighboring Ambassador Bridge)
Trade and supply chains between the US and Canada

What action is being taken

Trump is threatening to block the bridge's opening
Trump stated that negotiations would begin immediately
Senator Slotkin is promising to work to get the project back on track
The bridge is undergoing formal tests and approvals for opening

Why it matters

The Gordie Howe International Bridge is a vital economic link between the United States and Canada, two major trading partners. Blocking its opening could result in higher costs for Michigan businesses, less secure supply chains, and job losses in the state. The bridge represents a significant infrastructure investment and has been described as an example of bipartisan and international cooperation. Trump's threat also signals escalating trade tensions between the two countries and could damage the longstanding economic relationship between America and its northern neighbor.

What's next

Trump stated that negotiations would begin immediately, though he did not elaborate on details. The bridge is expected to open to traffic in the early part of this year pending formal tests and approvals. Senator Slotkin has promised to work to get the project back on track.

Read full article from source: BBC