Port Huron, Michigan, Oct. 29 (askanews) – The trade war between the United States and Canada is weighing on the American election campaign. In Port Huron, Michigan, the Blue Water Bridge continues to connect two countries whose economies are deeply intertwined, especially in the automotive sector. But Donald Trump's trade policies have strained relations with his Canadian neighbor, fueling discontent even in a state that overwhelmingly voted for the Republican president in 2024. "We live right next to Canada, and he, Trump, imposed all these tariffs, even on the automotive industry.
"It's all terrible, everything he's doing. I mean, we love Canada," explains Dawn Blaylock, a retired nurse. An economic but also personal bond, the one between the communities on both sides of the border, is being tested by trade tensions. "I don't know, I haven't looked into it yet, but I know they're no longer on good terms.
It shouldn't be this way, because we used to be friends, great friends, and we should continue to be," comments Micky Roe, a former police officer, still undecided on how to vote. And in addition to tariffs, voters are also concerned about the cost of living. In Grand Rapids, among gas stations, frustration cuts across political lines. "Everyone's gone crazy, I think.
"Democrats and Republicans should all get together and find a solution," suggests retiree Jamie Rosser. Michigan will be one of the crucial states in the November 3 midterm elections. The Senate seat is being contested between Democrat Abdul El-Sayed and Republican Mike Rogers, who is supported by Trump but is strongly critical of the trade war with Canada. This vote will also be a test of the White House's economic policies.
Askanews