The organizer of a petition demanding the expulsion of U.S. Ambassador Pete Hoekstra from Canada is surprised by the overwhelming support it has received. The online petition, scheduled for presentation in the House of Commons, calls for the removal of Hoekstra and has garnered over 100,000 signatures. Lee Walker, the initiator of the petition based in Calgary, expressed astonishment at the level of public engagement, indicating widespread discomfort among Canadians with Hoekstra’s alignment with President Trump’s viewpoints on Canadian sovereignty.
The petition accuses Hoekstra of undermining diplomatic relations between Canada and the U.S. by intervening in Canadian political discussions and normalizing the notion of Canada being annexed by the United States. Walker emphasized that such behavior from an ambassador carries significant weight and can have tangible repercussions. In response to criticisms from Hoekstra regarding Canadian political leaders’ reactions to ongoing trade disputes, the petition also calls for a parliamentary review of U.S. diplomatic interference in Canadian affairs.
The U.S. Embassy in Ottawa declined to comment on the petition but acknowledged its awareness of the situation. Walker highlighted existing tensions between the two countries, emphasizing the need to uphold Canada’s sovereignty. As trade negotiations intensify, Canadian and American officials are striving to reach a trade agreement before the imposition of additional tariffs by President Trump.
Green Party Leader Elizabeth May is set to present the petition in Parliament during the upcoming session. May commended the significant public response, stating that it is a duty to support petitions brought forward by citizens. She contrasted Hoekstra’s approach unfavorably with past diplomatic practices, citing the need for ambassadors to foster positive relationships.
May expressed uncertainty about the petition’s outcome but stressed its role in sparking essential discussions. She highlighted the unity and resilience of Canadians in asserting their values and rejecting intimidation. While Walker acknowledged uncertainty regarding the government’s response to the petition, she emphasized the importance of sending a clear message that inappropriate conduct by a foreign ambassador will not be overlooked.