Tens of thousands of Canadians have signed a petition demanding the expulsion of Pete Hoekstra, the U.S. Ambassador to Canada, citing actions detrimental to the Canada-U.S. diplomatic ties. The petition, initiated by a Calgary resident, will be presented in the House of Commons, urging the Canadian government to declare Hoekstra persona non grata and request his removal.
The petition accuses Hoekstra of interfering in Canadian politics and undermining the diplomatic relationship between the two countries. It also calls for a parliamentary committee to investigate U.S. diplomatic interventions in Canadian affairs. Green Party Leader Elizabeth May is set to present the petition in Parliament, emphasizing that MPs can table petitions without endorsing their content.
Hoekstra stirred controversy by suggesting that Canada’s annexation by the U.S. would be a valid topic for discussion between Prime Minister Mark Carney and President Donald Trump. His remarks have drawn criticism for normalizing threats to annex Canada and for his stance on trade policies.
The U.S. Embassy in Ottawa declined to comment on the petition, acknowledging its awareness of the matter. The petition highlights concerns over Hoekstra’s statements and actions, urging for diplomatic consequences, akin to recent expulsions of diplomats from China and India over similar allegations of interference.
The petition’s rapid increase in signatures reflects widespread discontent with Hoekstra’s conduct, with Canadians expressing their dissatisfaction with the U.S. Ambassador’s controversial remarks and actions. The call for his expulsion underscores the importance of upholding diplomatic protocols and fostering positive bilateral relations between Canada and the United States.