A petition initiated by a woman in Calgary targeting the expulsion of Pete Hoekstra, the U.S. Ambassador to Canada appointed by President Donald Trump, has garnered significant support, surpassing initial expectations. The online petition, slated for submission to the House of Commons this autumn, demands that Hoekstra be deemed persona non grata and urges the Canadian government to seek his removal. Over 100,000 individuals had endorsed the petition by Thursday afternoon.
Lee Walker, the originator of the petition, expressed surprise at the overwhelming response, emphasizing that it highlights a widespread discomfort among Canadians regarding Hoekstra’s alignment with Trump’s viewpoints on Canadian sovereignty and the nation as a whole. The petition accuses Hoekstra of undermining Canada-U.S. diplomatic relations and interfering in Canadian political affairs in a manner inconsistent with diplomatic norms.
Notably, Hoekstra attracted attention in June for suggesting that the annexation of Canada by the United States could be a discussion topic for Prime Minister Mark Carney and President Trump. Walker criticized such statements, emphasizing the weight carried by an ambassador’s words and the potential consequences of normalizing such rhetoric.
The petition also calls on the Liberal government to task a parliamentary committee with reviewing U.S. diplomatic interference in Canadian matters. The U.S. Embassy in Ottawa declined to comment on the petition, noting awareness of its existence. Walker highlighted existing tensions between the two nations, emphasizing the need to uphold Canadian sovereignty.
Furthermore, the petition, to be presented in Parliament by Green Party Leader Elizabeth May, has evoked a strong response from Canadians. May emphasized the diplomat’s role in fostering relationships, contrasting Hoekstra’s approach unfavorably with that of past ambassadors. The petition’s presentation provides an avenue for crucial discussions amid ongoing trade negotiations between Canada and the U.S., aiming to address potential tariffs on Canadian goods.
May expressed admiration for the solidarity demonstrated by Canadians through the petition, highlighting the significance of the conversation it enables. While uncertain of the petition’s outcome, she underscored its message of Canadian resilience against intimidation. Walker echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the need to address inappropriate conduct by a sitting ambassador.