Trump Threatens to Block Canada-U.S. Bridge Opening

President claims Canada will 'own' the $4.7 billion Gordie Howe International Bridge and demands full compensation.

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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President Donald Trump has threatened to block the opening of the $4.7 billion Gordie Howe International Bridge connecting Detroit, Michigan to Windsor, Ontario, citing a range of grievances against Canada. Trump claims Canada will own both sides of the bridge and that it was built with 'virtually no U.S. content,' warning he will 'not allow this bridge to open until the United States is fully compensated' for everything it has 'given' to Canada.

Why it matters

The bridge is a vital economic link between the U.S. and Canada, with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security estimating it will save $12.7 million annually for travelers by reducing congestion. Trump's threat to block the bridge's opening marks the latest escalation in tensions between the President and Canada, which have included disputes over trade, tariffs, and Canada's relationship with China.

The details

Construction on the Gordie Howe International Bridge began in 2018 and is nearing completion. The Canada-Michigan Crossing Agreement signed in 2012 states that the Canadian government will pay for the bridge, with toll funds collected over 30 years used as reimbursement. The agreement also stipulates the bridge will be publicly owned by the governments of Canada and Michigan, and all iron and steel used in construction will be sourced from either the U.S. or Canada.

  • Construction on the Gordie Howe International Bridge began in 2018.
  • The Canada-Michigan Crossing Agreement was signed in June 2012.
  • In February 2017, Trump and then-Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau released a joint statement celebrating the bridge project.

The players

Donald Trump

The President of the United States who has threatened to block the opening of the Gordie Howe International Bridge.

Gordie Howe

A prolific Canadian ice hockey player after whom the bridge is named.

Drew Dilkens

The Mayor of Windsor, Ontario, who criticized Trump's threat as 'insane.'

Mark Carney

The former Governor of the Bank of Canada who responded to Trump's claim that 'Canada lives because of the United States' by firmly stating 'Canada does not live because of the United States. Canada thrives because we are Canadian.'

Rick Snyder

The former Governor of Michigan who accepted the Canadian government's offer to cover most of the costs for the bridge project.

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What they’re saying

“It's just insane. When I read that post, I really can't believe what I'm reading.”

— Drew Dilkens, Mayor of Windsor (CBC)

“Canada does not live because of the United States. Canada thrives because we are Canadian.”

— Mark Carney (Filmed address from Québec City)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.