Bridge Owner Donated $1 Million to MAGA Group Before Trump Blasted Competitor

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by Kenneth P. Vogel and Matina Stevis-Gridneff

February 21, 2026

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The billionaire owner of the Ambassador Bridge, Matthew Moroun, donated $1 million to MAGA Inc., a super PAC closely tied to former President Donald Trump, just weeks before Trump criticized a new bridge project connecting Michigan and Canada. The donation was made on January 16, 2024, according to campaign finance reports filed later that year. This followed Moroun's meeting with Howard Lutnick, the U.S. Secretary of Commerce, on February 9, where he reportedly lobbied against the new Gordie Howe International Bridge. Trump subsequently blasted the project in a tweet, though spokesmen for both MAGA Inc. and the White House denied any link between the donation and Trump's stance, asserting that such donations do not influence government decisions. The timing of Moroun's donation has raised questions about potential connections between his business interests and political actions. Moroun, whose family has long operated the Ambassador Bridge, a key border crossing between Detroit and Windsor, Ontario, has been a vocal opponent of the Gordie Howe International Bridge, which is set to become operational in 2026. Critics argue that the new bridge could reduce traffic and revenue for the Ambassador Bridge, leading some to speculate about motives behind Moroun's actions. MAGA Inc., a super PAC founded by Trump allies like Blake Masters and Charlie Kirk, has been criticized for its role in amplifying divisive rhetoric and promoting conservative causes. The organization denied any quid-pro-quo relationship with Moroun, stating that donations to MAGA Inc. do not influence government policy. Similarly, White House spokesperson Kush Desai emphasized that Trump's decisions are guided solely by the "best interest of the American people," dismissing claims of outside influence. The controversy highlights broader concerns about the intersection of business interests and political decision-making. Critics argue that Moroun's donation to MAGA Inc., which aligns with Trump's anti-immigration and nationalism rhetoric, could undermine public trust in infrastructure projects and policy decisions. As the Gordie Howe International Bridge nears completion, questions about its future operation and impact on cross-border trade remain unresolved. This story is significant for readers interested in news because it touches on issues of ethics, political influence, and infrastructure development. The donation and subsequent criticism underscore the delicate balance between business interests and public policy, raising important questions about transparency and accountability in government decision-making processes.

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Originally published on NYT Homepage on 2/21/2026