Democrats in Washington are broadening their investigation into the circumstances surrounding U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent threat to impede the opening of the new Gordie Howe bridge linking Windsor, Ont., and Detroit. California Representative Robert Garcia and Michigan Representative Rashida Tlaib reached out to Matthew Moroun, the owner of the nearby Ambassador Bridge, seeking communication records with the Trump administration.
Moroun, whose family has controlled the Ambassador Bridge for many years, reportedly met with a member of Trump’s cabinet shortly before the president announced on social media his intention to halt the new bridge’s opening unless the U.S. secured concessions from Canada, the sole funder of the over $6 billion project.
The Moroun family has consistently opposed the construction of the Gordie Howe bridge due to potential toll revenue loss. Matthew Moroun has been a significant contributor to the Republican Party lately, and the Ambassador Bridge company has invested heavily in a prominent Washington lobbying firm with close ties to Trump’s inner circle.
In their recent letter, Garcia and Tlaib focused on Moroun’s political donations, requesting information on any financial dealings he has had with the Trump campaign or the Republican party. The lawmakers accused Moroun of potentially using his donor influence to prioritize his company’s profits over American commerce.
Despite their efforts, the Democratic committee members lack the necessary Republican backing to compel Moroun’s cooperation, given their minority status. Garcia also initiated a similar investigation and request for records from the Trump administration. Michigan’s congressional representatives urged the president to proceed with the Gordie Howe bridge’s scheduled opening this year, highlighting the economic benefits it is expected to bring.
Moroun has not provided an immediate response to requests for comments.