A woman leading a petition to expel U.S. Ambassador Pete Hoekstra from Canada has expressed surprise at the overwhelming support the petition has garnered. The online petition, set to be presented in the House of Commons, demands that Hoekstra be declared persona non grata and removed as the U.S. ambassador to Canada. Over 100,000 individuals have signed the petition, indicating widespread discomfort among Canadians with Hoekstra’s alignment with President Trump’s policies.
According to the petition’s organizer, Lee Walker, Hoekstra’s statements have undermined the diplomatic relationship between Canada and the U.S. and have interfered in Canadian political affairs in a manner inconsistent with diplomatic norms. Walker specifically criticized Hoekstra for suggesting the annexation of Canada by the U.S. as a potential topic for discussion, stating that such rhetoric could have serious repercussions due to the ambassador’s influential position.
The petition also calls for a review of U.S. diplomatic interference in Canadian matters and urges the Liberal government to address the issue. Although the U.S. Embassy in Ottawa declined to comment on the petition, Walker emphasized the existing tension between the two countries, highlighting the need to uphold Canada’s sovereignty.
The petition, to be presented in the fall by Green Party Leader Elizabeth May, has received significant attention, with May acknowledging the unprecedented response from Canadians. She emphasized the importance of diplomatic relations and contrasted Hoekstra’s approach unfavorably with that of past ambassadors. May stressed the need for respectful dialogue and criticized Hoekstra’s conduct as damaging to bilateral relations.
The petition’s presentation in Parliament aims to spark a crucial conversation about diplomatic conduct and national sovereignty. While the outcome remains uncertain, the petition underscores Canadians’ unity and determination to uphold their values in the face of diplomatic challenges. Walker hopes the petition will send a clear message that inappropriate behavior from a foreign ambassador will not be tolerated lightly.
