LANSING, Mich., Jan. 15, 2026 – This week, state Reps. Jasper Martus (D-Flushing), Matthew Bierlein (R-Vassar) and Tom Kunse (R-Claire) returned from a multi-day trip to Toronto for meetings with business and government leaders. Ontario is Michigan’s largest trading partner, generating over $70 billion in two-way trade each year. The meetings included Ontario Premier Doug Ford, Speaker of the Ontario Parliament Donna Skelly, the Toronto Region Board of Trade and the U.S. Consul General Baxter Hunt.
“The connection between Ontario and Michigan is critical for people on both sides of the border,” Martus said. “As we consider how to keep Michigan economically competitive, our friends in Canada must play a role — sharing conversation in policies and ideas that create good paying jobs in all of our communities.”
During the trip, the delegations of Michigan and Canadian officials aimed to address current policy matters and expand regional diplomatic relations.
“As global economies continue to become more competitive, strengthening personal and professional relationships with Michigan’s number one trading partner is a priority,” Bierlein said.
“We are stronger together,” Kunse said. “Maintaining our relationship with Ontario is essential for protecting jobs on both sides of the border.”
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Contact:
Rep. Jasper Martus
(517) 373-7514
Rep. Matthew Bierlein
(517) 373-8962
Rep. Tom Kunse
(517) 373-7317