Every so often, a story comes along that perfectly captures the difference between private interest and public good. The saga of the Gordie Howe International Bridge is one of those stories.
For decades, the Ambassador Bridge—one of the busiest border crossings in North America—has been privately owned by the Moroun family, a billionaire dynasty known for guarding their monopoly with iron fists and endless legal battles. When Canada announced plans to build a new publicly owned bridge just a mile down the river, the reaction was predictable: outrage, lawsuits, political pressure, and every tactic money could buy.
He fought it.
He sued Canada.
He tried to block permits.
He even dragged the matter through U.S. courts.
But Canada didn’t flinch.
Canada built the bridge.
Canada paid for the bridge.
And in a gesture of goodwill and partnership, Canada even gave half ownership to the State of Michigan.
Now the bridge is complete—standing tall, modern, and ready to serve the millions of people and billions of dollars in trade that flow between our two nations.
And yet, here we are.
The billionaire has made one last desperate plea, this time at the White House, hoping the only sympathetic ear he could find might stop the bridge from opening. A $6‑billion piece of infrastructure—built to strengthen two nations—is suddenly caught in the crossfire of one man’s fear of competition.
Canada now faces more threats, more tantrums, and more attempts to delay what is inevitable.
But let’s be clear: The Gordie Howe Bridge will open.
Trying to stop it now is like trying to stop Niagara Falls. The momentum is too great, the need too obvious, and the public interest too strong. When the bridge finally opens—and it will—it will stand as more than steel and concrete. It will be a reminder that no individual, no matter how wealthy or powerful, should ever be allowed to divide communities, economies, or nations for personal gain.
The Gordie Howe Bridge will connect us.
It will strengthen us.
And it will remind us that progress cannot be held hostage by a billionaire’s tears.
