Local News

Gov. Whitmer on Ambassador Bridge closure: ‘My message is simple: Reopen traffic on the bridge’

Gretchen Whitmer says ongoing bridge closure is ‘unacceptable’

Derick Hutchinson, Digital Executive Producer

Published: February 10, 2022 at 10:27 AM

Tags: Lansing, Ingham County, Michigan, Local, Gretchen Whitmer, Ambassador Bridge, Ambassador Bridge Closure, Protests, Demonstration, Truck Drivers, Canada, US-Canada Border

LANSING, Mich. – Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer released a statement Thursday calling on Canadian authorities to resolve the Ambassador Bridge closure.

As the demonstration by truck drivers protesting Canada’s COVID-19 vaccine mandate stretches into its fourth day, it’s disrupting Michigan’s economy, including the automotive industry, manufacturing, agriculture and more, according to the governor.

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Here’s Whitmer’s full statement to Canadian authorities:

“My message is simple: Reopen traffic on the bridge.
“In Michigan, our economy continues to grow because of our hardworking people and innovative small businesses. Now, that momentum is at risk. Commercial traffic is at a standstill at the Ambassador Bridge and heavily backed up at the Blue Water Bridge.
“The blockade is having a significant impact on Michigan’s working families who are just trying to do their jobs. Our communities and automotive, manufacturing and agriculture businesses are feeling the effects. It’s hitting paychecks and production lines. That is unacceptable.
“The Ambassador Bridge is the busiest land border crossing in North America, used by tens of thousands of commuters and truck drivers carrying hundreds of millions of dollars of goods every day. Countless Michiganders rely on this daily flow of goods and people to get things done.
“It is imperative that Canadian local, provincial, and national governments de-escalate this economic blockade. They must take all necessary and appropriate steps to immediately and safely reopen traffic so we can continue growing our economy, supporting good-paying jobs and lowering costs for families.”
Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer

About the Author

Derick Hutchinson

Derick is the Digital Executive Producer for ClickOnDetroit and has been with Local 4 News since April 2013. Derick specializes in breaking news, crime and local sports.

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