In a shocking turn of events, former US President Donald Trump has set his sights on a major Canadian infrastructure project - the Gordie Howe International Bridge. What this really means is that Trump is doubling down on his aggressive trade policies, putting the fragile US-Canada relationship at further risk.
The Battle for the Bridge
The $5.7 billion Gordie Howe Bridge, which is set to open in early 2026, was supposed to be a symbol of cooperation and economic integration between the two North American neighbors. However, Trump is now threatening to demand a 50% stake in the bridge, claiming that Canada is unfairly benefiting from this critical piece of cross-border infrastructure.
As CNN reports, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has openly acknowledged that Trump's desire to "annex" Canada is a "real thing." The former president has even suggested that Trudeau familiarize himself with a 1908 treaty that set the boundaries between the two countries, hinting at a potential land grab.
Damaging Cross-Border Trade
The bigger picture here is that Trump's aggressive posturing is already having a chilling effect on cross-border trade and investment. The Globe and Mail reports that the US-Canada trade war has led to a sharp decline in passenger and commercial traffic across the existing Ambassador Bridge, which is the busiest international border crossing in North America.
This bodes ill for the Gordie Howe Bridge, which was intended to alleviate congestion and facilitate the efficient flow of goods and people between the two countries. Newsweek reports that the bridge's completion has already been delayed, and it remains unclear when it will actually open for traffic.
Escalating Tensions
The bottom line is that Trump's latest power play is not about the bridge itself, but rather a continuation of his broader efforts to strong-arm Canada and renegotiate the terms of North American trade. As recent coverage has shown, the former president's divisive rhetoric and disregard for democratic norms have had a corrosive influence on US politics. Now, it seems he is willing to jeopardize a vital economic partnership in pursuit of his own agenda.
Unless cooler heads prevail, the future of the Gordie Howe Bridge, and the wider US-Canada relationship, hangs in the balance. The stakes could not be higher, and the consequences of Trump's actions will be felt on both sides of the border.