New Trade Bridge Caught in U.S.-Canada Politics

Millions of trucks transport car parts, machinery, and other goods across a small section of the U.S.-Canada border annually. This area is recognized as North America’s busiest land crossing, located between Detroit and Windsor, Ontario. Recently, NPR’s Don Gonyea visited this crossing to examine a new but unopened bridge.

Construction and Delay

Construction of the Gordie Howe International Bridge began in 2018. Named after the Canadian-born Hall of Fame hockey legend, the bridge was initially scheduled to open early this year. However, the opening has been postponed due to political issues. Recently, President Trump demanded that Canada share ownership with the United States before allowing the bridge to open.

In June, a grand opening was planned by the bridge authority. Yet, it was abruptly canceled at the last moment. Stephen Laskowski, president of the Canadian Trucking Alliance and head of the Ontario Trucking Association, learned of the cancellation just as he prepared to attend. “I was heading out. My wife said, ‘Your phone’s ringing’ … it said, don’t bother going,” he shared with NPR.

Ownership and Political Tension

The Canadian government and the state of Michigan jointly own the bridge. Canada financed the construction and agreed to share toll revenue with Michigan once construction costs are recouped. Despite this agreement, the current stance from the U.S. presidency is that this isn’t sufficient.

Some Canadian politicians have raised concerns that a rival bridge’s owners might influence the delay. The Moroun family, owners of the Ambassador Bridge, donated millions to Republicans, including a $1 million donation to a Trump-aligned super PAC.

NPR interviewed WDET reporter Alex McLenon, Canadian residents, and others to grasp the closure’s effects on the continent. For the complete story, listen to the audio segment available via the blue play button above.