A petition led by a woman in Calgary is gaining momentum, calling for the removal of U.S. Ambassador to Canada, Pete Hoekstra. The online petition, which has garnered over 100,000 signatures, demands that Hoekstra be declared persona non grata and urges the Canadian government to request his expulsion.
The petitioner, Lee Walker, expressed surprise at the overwhelming response, indicating that many Canadians are concerned about Hoekstra’s alignment with President Trump’s rhetoric on Canadian sovereignty. Walker accused Hoekstra of interfering in Canadian politics and undermining diplomatic relations between the two countries.
Specifically, the petition highlights Hoekstra’s remarks suggesting the annexation of Canada by the United States as a potential topic for discussion, which was deemed inappropriate for an ambassador. Moreover, Hoekstra criticized Canadian leaders for their response to U.S. tariffs, labeling it as dangerous for bilateral relations.
In addition to calling for Hoekstra’s removal, the petition urges the Liberal government to investigate U.S. diplomatic interference in Canadian affairs. While the U.S. Embassy in Ottawa refrained from commenting on the petition, tensions between the two nations amid ongoing trade talks have been acknowledged.
Green Party Leader Elizabeth May is set to present the petition in Parliament, emphasizing the need to address the concerns raised by Canadian citizens. May highlighted the importance of diplomatic relationships and contrasted Hoekstra’s approach unfavorably with that of past ambassadors who prioritized building rapport.
Despite uncertainties about the petition’s outcome, both Walker and May underscored the significance of sending a message regarding respect for Canadian sovereignty. The petition serves as a platform for Canadians to voice their stance against behavior deemed unacceptable from a diplomatic representative.