MOUNT CLEMENS, Mich., Feb. 11, 2026 — President Trump took to social media recently to claim that he will not permit the opening of the Gordie Howe International Bridge, escalating his trade war on Canada. The bridge is the result of years of cooperation between Michigan and Canada, with Canada footing the majority of the $5.7 billion of construction costs.
Following the President’s threats against one of America’s largest trading partners, state Rep. Denise Mentzer (D-Mt. Clemens) issued the following statement:
“Canada is one of our largest trading partners, and Michigan benefits greatly from that relationship. Here in Macomb County alone, we export $3.5 billion worth of goods annually and an additional $70 million in services — our economic partnership with Canada is vital for the success of my community and the potential economic impact of this bridge cannot be understated.
“Threatening to block the opening of the bridge, at a time when Michigan’s labor force is struggling, is shortsighted and tremendously harmful to Canadians and Michiganders alike. There are 35 Canadian-owned businesses in Macomb County that support nearly 1,500 jobs, on top of the thousands of jobs that are supported by exports to Canada. We should be prioritizing working with allies, not alienating them entirely. I call on President Trump to reverse course and recognize the importance of Michigan’s economic and trading relationship with Canada.”
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