Trump Threatens EU Tariffs as Canada Pursues Closer Ties With Europe
MID-MICHIGAN — September 17, 2026 — President Donald Trump is warning of possible economic retaliation against the European Union if the bloc moves forward with a proposal to give Canada an “associate member” relationship.
Trump said Wednesday that such a move could be considered a hostile act toward the United States and warned that his administration could respond with heavy tariffs or restrictions on trade with Europe. The comments come as Canada looks to diversify its economic relationships amid continuing trade tensions with the U.S. (AP News)
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, speaking to the European Parliament, endorsed deeper Canada-EU cooperation but stopped short of formally embracing the “associate member” label. Carney has called for a closer Canadian-European partnership involving areas including defense, energy, critical minerals, artificial intelligence and digital trade. (Reuters)
Fed Raises Interest Rates
The Federal Reserve raised its benchmark interest rate Wednesday by a quarter percentage point, bringing the federal funds target range to 3.75% to 4%.
It was the Fed's first rate increase since 2023. Officials cited persistent inflation and ongoing economic uncertainty, including geopolitical developments. The Fed said inflation remains elevated and that the latest move is intended to help return inflation to its 2% goal. (Federal Reserve)
The decision came despite President Trump’s continued calls for lower interest rates. Higher borrowing costs can affect consumers through credit cards, auto loans, mortgages and other forms of financing, while potentially providing higher returns for some savers.
Fed policymakers also indicated that another rate increase could come before the end of the year, although future decisions will depend on incoming economic data. (Reuters)
Strike Averted at MyMichigan Alma
A planned three-day unfair labor practice strike at MyMichigan Medical Center Alma has been canceled after nurses and the hospital reached a tentative contract agreement.
The Michigan Nurses Association said the agreement was reached Wednesday, preventing the strike that had been scheduled to begin September 21. Nurses will vote on whether to ratify the agreement on September 24.
The contract is not final until that vote. Details of the tentative agreement have not yet been released publicly. (MI Nurses Association)
The nurses had been negotiating with the hospital for more than nine months. Their previous contract expired in February. (MI Nurses Association)
Public Input Sought on Michigan Mobility 2050
The Michigan Department of Transportation is holding its second virtual webinar Thursday on Michigan Mobility 2050, the state's long-range transportation plan.
The webinar is scheduled for 11 a.m. to noon and will include a presentation followed by an opportunity for residents and other participants to submit comments. MDOT says the plan establishes a long-term vision for Michigan's transportation network, including roads, rail, freight and active transportation. (Michigan)
Residents can find information about the webinar through the Michigan Department of Transportation's website.
Sports
The Detroit Tigers' six-game winning streak came to an end Wednesday as the Toronto Blue Jays defeated Detroit 5-1. Toronto avoided a three-game sweep, with Max Scherzer pitching five effective innings and allowing one run. (Reuters)
The Tigers return to action Thursday night against the Chicago White Sox. First pitch is scheduled for 7:40 p.m. ET. (MLB.com)
The Detroit Lions are also in action Thursday night, traveling to Buffalo to face the Bills. Kickoff is scheduled for 8:15 p.m. ET. (NFL)
Mid-Michigan Weather
For Thursday, the forecast calls for mostly cloudy skies with a slight chance of showers and a high near 74 degrees.
Tonight will be partly cloudy with a low around 52. Friday is expected to be mostly sunny with a high near 73, while Saturday brings increasing clouds and a chance of showers with a high around 65.
Stay with your local news sources throughout the day for updates on weather, traffic, sports and breaking news across Mid-Michigan.
