Robert Falcon-Ouellette (English and French)
Associate Professor, Faculty of Education.
As a former Liberal MP, Professor Falcon-Ouellette’s research interests include Indigenous affairs and Canadian politics.
“Was PM Mark Carney right to cancel the joint opening ceremony with President Trump placing considerable importance on appearances, ceremonies and public recognition? The event may have offered Canada a useful diplomatic opportunity to celebrate a major shared project while still firmly opposing the tariffs.A joint ceremony could have highlighted how deeply connected the two economies remain, despite the current political tensions.
There is also an Indigenous dimension. The bridge stands on Anishinaabe territory, and Indigenous peoples-maintained trade, kinship and diplomatic relationships across the Detroit River long before the current international border existed.”
Charles-Étienne Beaudry (English & French)
Part-time Professor, School of Political Studies, Faculty of Social Sciences.
Professor Beaudry’s research interests touch on Canadian and American politics.
“Ironically, the Gordie Howe Bridge was named after Mr. Hockey, who was known for his "elbows up" style, and that meant that he would not back down from a fight on the ice. Unfortunately, the stakes were too high for the Canadian government and any delays in opening the new bridge would have damaged Canada’s economy more than the US’s. PM Mark Carney has chosen to limit the damages and the bridge’s solo inauguration today is the only retaliation that Canada has launched.
Despite Canada paying for the bridge alone, half will now go to an American fund controlled by the United States Department of Commerce. This situation comes at a time when CUSMA must be renegotiated and when the Trump administration is opening his "poker game" with another major threat of tariffs against Canada, another strategy of negotiation. Canadians and their leaders need to come together and have an important public deliberation on this issue.”