A Calgary woman leading an online petition to eject U.S. Ambassador Pete Hoekstra from Canada is amazed by the overwhelming support it has received. The petition, with over 100,000 signatures so far, demands that Hoekstra be labeled persona non grata and urges the Canadian government to seek his removal.
Lee Walker, the petitioner, expressed surprise at the widespread backing, indicating that it underscores a broad discomfort among Canadians with Hoekstra’s alignment with President Trump’s policies on Canadian sovereignty. The petition accuses Hoekstra of undermining Canada-U.S. relations by interfering in Canadian politics and normalizing the idea of Canada being annexed by the United States.
Walker emphasized that Hoekstra’s comments carry significant weight due to his diplomatic role, and the normalization of such rhetoric can have serious repercussions. The petition also calls on the Liberal government to investigate U.S. diplomatic meddling in Canadian affairs.
While the U.S. Embassy in Ottawa declined to comment on the petition, Walker highlighted the existing tension between the two nations, suggesting that the turmoil is currently one-sided. She stressed the importance of upholding Canada’s sovereignty and not treating it as negotiable.
Green Party Leader Elizabeth May will present the petition in Parliament, noting the remarkable response from Canadians. May emphasized the role of diplomats in fostering relationships, contrasting Hoekstra’s approach unfavorably with past U.S. ambassadors who effectively engaged with Canadian officials despite policy disagreements.
The petition’s presentation offers an opportunity for a significant dialogue, reflecting strong Canadian solidarity against perceived diplomatic overreach. Walker acknowledged uncertainties about the government’s response but underscored that tolerating such behavior from an ambassador is not an option.