A Calgary-based woman leading a petition to expel U.S. Ambassador Pete Hoekstra from Canada expressed surprise at the overwhelming response it has garnered. The online petition, set for presentation in the House of Commons, demands Hoekstra be declared persona non grata and removed as U.S. ambassador. Over 100,000 signatories have supported the petition, indicating widespread discomfort among Canadians over Hoekstra’s alignment with Trump’s views on Canadian sovereignty.
The petition accuses Hoekstra of undermining Canada-U.S. relations by intervening in Canadian politics inappropriately. Specifically, it criticizes his remarks suggesting Canada’s annexation by the U.S. as a viable topic for discussion. The petitioner emphasized the weight of Hoekstra’s diplomatic role and the need to avoid normalizing such rhetoric, citing potential real-world consequences.
Notably, the petition also calls for a parliamentary review of U.S. diplomatic interference in Canadian affairs. While the U.S. Embassy declined to comment on the petition, concerns were raised about the ongoing trade talks between the two countries amid escalating tensions.
Green Party Leader Elizabeth May, who will present the petition in Parliament, commended the strong public response and stressed the importance of upholding diplomatic norms. She contrasted Hoekstra’s approach unfavorably with that of a former U.S. ambassador known for his diplomatic charm. May highlighted the significance of citizen-led petitions as a means to voice concerns and uphold national sovereignty.
The petition, expected to spark crucial dialogue, aims to convey a message of Canadian solidarity and resilience against perceived diplomatic misconduct. While the outcome remains uncertain, the petitioner hopes it will prompt meaningful action and reinforce the importance of respectful diplomatic conduct.