Washington Democrats are broadening their inquiry into the circumstances surrounding President Donald Trump’s recent threat to impede the opening of the new Gordie Howe bridge linking Windsor, Ontario, and Detroit. California Representative Robert Garcia and Michigan Representative Rashida Tlaib reached out to Matthew Moroun, the owner of the adjacent Ambassador Bridge, requesting disclosure of any communications with the Trump administration.
Moroun, whose family has controlled the Ambassador Bridge for years, reportedly had a meeting with a member of Trump’s cabinet shortly before the president announced via social media his intention to block the bridge’s opening unless the U.S. obtained concessions from Canada, the sole funder of the over $6 billion project.
The Moroun family has historically opposed the construction of the Gordie Howe bridge, anticipating a negative impact on their toll revenue. Matthew Moroun, a significant Republican contributor in recent times, and the Ambassador Bridge company have invested heavily in a prominent Washington lobbying firm closely connected to Trump’s inner circle.
Garcia and Tlaib’s letter on Wednesday focused on Moroun’s political donations, seeking information on any financial dealings he had with the Trump campaign or the Republican party. The lawmakers accused Moroun of potentially leveraging his influence as a donor to Trump to prioritize his company’s financial interests over American commerce.
Despite the Democratic committee members’ efforts, they lack the necessary Republican backing to compel Moroun’s cooperation due to their minority position. Garcia initiated the committee’s investigation and submitted a similar information request to the Trump administration on Friday. Additionally, Michigan’s congressional representatives urged the president to permit the planned opening of the Gordie Howe bridge this year, emphasizing its projected economic advantages.
Moroun has not yet responded to requests for comments on the matter.