Tens of thousands of Canadian citizens have joined a petition urging the expulsion of the U.S. Ambassador to Canada, Pete Hoekstra. The online petition, scheduled for presentation in the House of Commons, demands Hoekstra be declared persona non grata and removed from his diplomatic role. The petition, spearheaded by a Calgary resident, criticizes Hoekstra for his alleged interference in Canadian politics and negative impact on Canada-U.S. relations.
The document, with nearly 60,000 signatures as of Wednesday morning, outlines concerns over Hoekstra’s public statements that have been deemed detrimental to the diplomatic ties between the two countries. It also calls for a parliamentary committee to investigate U.S. diplomatic involvement in Canadian internal affairs. Green Party Leader Elizabeth May is set to present the petition in Parliament, emphasizing that Members of Parliament can table petitions without necessarily endorsing the content.
Hoekstra sparked controversy when he suggested that Canada becoming a U.S. territory could be a plausible discussion topic between Prime Minister Mark Carney and President Donald Trump. The U.S. Ambassador has faced criticism for his comments on Canadian political discourse and trade relations, expressing disappointment with what he perceives as anti-American sentiments in Canada.
The U.S. Embassy in Ottawa has acknowledged the petition but declined to comment on the matter. The petition’s call for Hoekstra’s expulsion aligns with past diplomatic actions where countries like China and India had their diplomats expelled over allegations of interference. Canada expelled a Chinese diplomat in 2023 for reportedly targeting a Canadian MP, and later, six Indian diplomats were asked to leave amid accusations of their involvement in activities against Canadian citizens.
Carney’s administration has focused on enhancing relations with China and India, despite past diplomatic tensions. The ongoing petition against Hoekstra reflects the public’s dissatisfaction with the U.S. Ambassador’s conduct and its perceived impact on Canada-U.S. relations.