A longtime ally of the U.S. is now on defense after the Trump administration threatened tariffs before hitting the pause button.
In Ontario, Canada, some Windsorites say the pause offers some sort of relief.
“But it’s not like we can lay our fears to rest,” Lisbeth Taylor said.
Windsor, known as the Automotive Capital of Canada, is bracing for a potential blow to its community.
“I would say 25% of our workforce is related to either automotive manufacturing parts or tool and die mold, and it’s quite significant,” Mayor Drew Dilkens said. “That’s why the impact of a 25% tariff will be catastrophic.
The Windsor leader told Local 4 he is talking to his mayoral counterparts in Metro Detroit.
“It’s all about linking arms – reaching out across the border and having them amplify their voices to be our allies here,” he said.
Recently, the mayor also said he plans to veto the city’s council decision to subsidize the Windsor-Detroit Tunnel bus line.
The line brings about 40,000 people to the Motor City every year, where they spend money.
A spokesperson for the Detroit Windsor Tunnel responded to the decision in a released statement.
“While we understand the broader economic and political factors, we remain hopeful that this essential service will return.
The Tunnel has been a cornerstone of economic integration between Windsor and Detroit for over 90 years, generating nearly $595 million in annual economic impact for Michigan. The City of Windsor is and will always remain a critical partner.”
Ryan Bridges spokesperson for Detroit/Windsor Tunnel
Across the border, U.S. Lawmakers are worried about the possible ripple effects in Southeast Michigan.
Rep. Haley Stevens is pushing for President Trump to work with lawmakers on tariff talks.
“These disruptions that don’t build off the consistency and certainty so needed in the automotive industry – it causes not just heartburn, but it does have a cost,” the congresswoman said.
Meanwhile, Canadians are making it clear their frustration is not directed against the American people.
“Well, I just don’t want to tell you about your president. He’s like…just not a good president,” Sue St. Louis said.
There’s a push to buy more Canada-made products, as we saw in a grocery store, from bread to snacks, and boycott U.S. products and services.
Some shoppers said stores are shelving their American booze from the floor, while others are even tossing plans to vacation in the U.S.
