Trump Threatens to Block Gordie Howe Bridge Over Ownership Dispute with Canada

The dispute over the $4 billion bridge connecting Detroit and Windsor has escalated, with the US demanding partial ownership and economic benefits.

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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A dispute over the Gordie Howe Bridge, connecting Detroit, Michigan and Windsor, Ontario, has escalated, with President Trump threatening to block its opening. The core of the issue is ownership and economic benefits, with the US demanding at least half ownership and a fair share of the economic gains generated by the bridge.

Why it matters

The Gordie Howe Bridge is an important economic link between the US and Canada, intended to ease congestion and facilitate increased trade. Blocking its opening could have significant economic consequences for both nations. This dispute raises broader questions about the future of US-Canada trade and infrastructure projects.

The details

The current conflict represents a shift from Trump's initial support for the bridge's construction in 2017. However, his recent statements on Truth Social indicate a demand for 'recompense' from Canada and a call for 'fairness, and respect.' Canadian Prime Minister Justin Carney has countered Trump's claims, explaining that Canada financed the $4 billion (Canadian dollars) construction of the bridge and highlighting the collaborative nature of the project. The White House argues that Canada's control over what passes through the bridge and its ownership of the land on both sides is 'unacceptable,' leading to the demand for partial US ownership.

  • In 2017, Trump initially supported the bridge's construction, calling it an important economic link between the two countries.
  • In recent statements on Truth Social, Trump has demanded 'recompense' from Canada and called for 'fairness, and respect' regarding the bridge.

The players

President Trump

The current President of the United States who is threatening to block the opening of the Gordie Howe Bridge over an ownership dispute with Canada.

Justin Carney

The Prime Minister of Canada who has countered Trump's claims, explaining that Canada financed the $4 billion construction of the bridge and highlighting the collaborative nature of the project.

Karoline Leavitt

The White House Press Secretary who stated that the President believes the United States should own at least half of the bridge and receive a fair share of the economic gains it generates.

Michigan

The state that is a co-owner of the Gordie Howe Bridge, and whose economic interests are directly tied to its successful operation.

Canada

The country that financed the $4 billion construction of the Gordie Howe Bridge and is the co-owner with the state of Michigan.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

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.