Overview
- In a Truth Social post, the president said he will not allow the Detroit–Windsor crossing to open unless the U.S. is “fully compensated” and potentially granted “at least one half” ownership.
- The more than $4 billion project was financed by Canada and is set up for joint public ownership by Canada and Michigan, with costs recouped through tolls managed by the Windsor-Detroit Bridge Authority.
- The bridge is nearing completion and was designated a U.S. port of entry by the Department of Homeland Security on January 30, yet news outlets report no clear mechanism has been identified for blocking its opening.
- Michigan Democrats including Sen. Elissa Slotkin, Sen. Gary Peters and Rep. Debbie Dingell warned a delay would harm the state’s economy and supply chains; a University of Windsor study projects 20-minute time savings and $2.3 billion in trucking benefits over 30 years.
- Trump tied his ultimatum to disputes over Buy American waivers, Ontario liquor policies and Canadian dairy tariffs, and it follows earlier threats of sweeping tariffs on Canada, including a 100% levy if Ottawa finalizes a trade deal with China.