Consider This from NPR: Trump's Tariffs and Rhetoric Strain Historic Windsor-Detroit Friendship

Release Date: February 23, 2025

Introduction

In this episode of NPR's "Consider This," host Don Gonyea explores the escalating tensions between the United States and Canada, particularly focusing on how former President Donald Trump's tariffs and provocative rhetoric are jeopardizing the long-standing and robust relationship between Windsor, Ontario, and Detroit, Michigan. This historic friendship, deeply rooted in economic collaboration and cultural exchange, now faces significant strain under the current political climate.

Historic Ties Between Windsor and Detroit

Windsor and Detroit share a unique bond, being sister cities divided by the Detroit River. Windsor, known as the auto parts capital of Canada, has an economy intricately linked to Detroit's Motor City. Government data highlights that Ontario supports over 100,000 automobile jobs alone, not including numerous ancillary positions. For decades, this symbiotic relationship has fostered a strong, friendly connection between the two communities.

Don Gonyea (00:00): "According to government data, Ontario has more than 100,000 automobile jobs, not counting the spin-off jobs, and the two populations have enjoyed a very friendly symbiotic relationship since way back before my time."

Impact of Trump's Policies and Rhetoric

The episode delves into the immediate and long-term impacts of Trump's policies, including the imposition of 25% tariffs on Canadian products crossing the border. More provocatively, Trump's rhetoric about potentially turning Canada into the 51st state has ignited fear and resentment among Windsor residents.

Mayor Drew Dilkens (07:38): "You know, it's just sort of preposterous, preposterous for us to think about this, that we're at this point in time and we're not even quite sure how we got there."

Economic Repercussions on Local Businesses

Local businesses that thrived on cross-border interactions are now grappling with uncertainty. Adriano Chotelli of Windsor Eats, an event planning business that included Detroit bar crawls, has had to pause these popular tours due to the deteriorating relations. These bar crawls were not only a cultural exchange but also essential for the economic sustenance of smaller Detroit bars.

Adriano Chotelli (06:56): "And it's unfortunate that, you know, in the grand scheme of things, it's little businesses like this that are going to be hurt."

Sense of Betrayal and Community Sentiment

The community in Windsor feels a profound sense of betrayal, likening the administration's actions to a personal backstab by a best friend. This sentiment is echoed by multiple Windsorites who perceive the tariffs and hostile rhetoric as direct attacks on their prosperity and cultural ties.

Adriano Chotelli (07:04): "It's kind of like when your best friend goes and stabs you in the back."

Official Responses and Symbolic Actions

Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens has taken tangible steps to signal his disapproval of the U.S. administration's stance. These include ending city subsidies for a commuter bus service to Detroit and withdrawing sponsorship for the annual Detroit Grand Prix. While these actions may seem minor, they represent a significant shift in the city's approach to its cross-border relationship.

Mayor Drew Dilkens (09:09): "And in true Canadian form, let me tell you, I apologize for having to do that. And I recognize it's a pebble in the ocean, like the rip, like I'm not changing the world by doing these two things right. But it's a signal."

Economic Threats and Industry Insights

The automotive industry, a cornerstone of both Windsor and Detroit's economies, is under threat. The chairman of Ford Motor Company has warned that the imposed tariffs could disrupt tight supply chains, potentially causing significant harm to the auto sector in both countries.

Don Gonyea (10:15): "Meanwhile, in a recent speech, the chairman of the Ford Motor Company warned that the threatened tariffs and their impact on tight supply chains would blow a hole in the auto industry that would affect both countries."

Community Resilience and Future Outlook

Despite the challenges, Windsorites express a determination to strengthen their community bonds in the face of adversity. The collective response aims to bolster solidarity and navigate the uncertain future shaped by geopolitical tensions and economic policies.

Mayor Drew Dilkens (10:36): "And none of us are foolish enough to think that the United States doesn't have the military might. If they want and choose to take over Canada, we'd put up a good fight. We'd probably lose. We know that. But the thought that that's where we are all of a sudden, with a snap of a finger, is abhorrent to us."

Conclusion

As the episode wraps up, it becomes clear that the Windsor-Detroit friendship is at a critical juncture. The combined pressures of economic sanctions and aggressive political rhetoric are testing the resilience of this historic relationship. The community's response, marked by both symbolic gestures and a steadfast commitment to mutual support, highlights the deep-seated value they place on their cross-border connections. Moving forward, the future of Windsor and Detroit's partnership remains uncertain, hinging on broader diplomatic developments and the ability of both communities to adapt to the evolving political landscape.

Notable Quotes:

• Don Gonyea (00:00): "According to government data, Ontario has more than 100,000 automobile jobs, not counting the spin-off jobs, and the two populations have enjoyed a very friendly symbiotic relationship since way back before my time."

• Adriano Chotelli (07:04): "It's kind of like when your best friend goes and stabs you in the back."

• Mayor Drew Dilkens (09:09): "But it's a signal."

• Don Gonyea (10:15): "The threatened tariffs and their impact on tight supply chains would blow a hole in the auto industry that would affect both countries."

• Mayor Drew Dilkens (10:36): "The thought that that's where we are all of a sudden, with a snap of a finger, is abhorrent to us."

Produced by Lauren Hodges and edited by Megan Pratz. Executive Producer: Sammy Yenigun.