A Calgary woman leading a petition to expel U.S. Ambassador Pete Hoekstra from Canada expressed surprise at the overwhelming response it has received. The online petition, set to be presented in the House of Commons, demands that Hoekstra be declared persona non grata and removed from his position as ambassador. Over 100,000 individuals have signed the petition, indicating widespread discomfort among Canadians with Hoekstra’s alignment with President Trump’s viewpoints on Canadian sovereignty.
The petition, spearheaded by Lee Walker, accuses Hoekstra of undermining Canada-U.S. diplomatic ties through inappropriate interventions in Canadian politics. Specifically, it criticizes him for suggesting Canada’s annexation by the U.S. and downplaying the impact of trade disputes on relations. Walker emphasized the weight of Hoekstra’s words as an ambassador and the potential consequences of normalizing such rhetoric.
In response, a U.S. Embassy spokesperson in Ottawa acknowledged awareness of the petition but refrained from further comment. Regarding the ongoing trade negotiations between the two nations, Walker highlighted existing tensions and emphasized the importance of upholding Canada’s sovereignty without compromise.
The petition also calls on the Canadian government to scrutinize U.S. diplomatic interference in domestic affairs. It is scheduled to be presented in Parliament by Green Party Leader Elizabeth May, who praised the public’s engagement and expressed concern over Hoekstra’s divisive conduct compared to past ambassadors. May underscored the role of diplomats in fostering relationships and highlighted the need for respectful dialogue between nations.
As Canadian and American officials work towards a trade resolution, the petition serves as a platform for citizens to voice their concerns and uphold national integrity. While the petition’s impact remains uncertain, it reflects a strong sense of solidarity among Canadians and a firm stance against behavior deemed detrimental to bilateral relations. Walker hopes the petition will convey a message of accountability and underscore the unacceptability of actions by a foreign ambassador.
