A Calgary-based woman spearheading a petition to expel U.S. Ambassador Pete Hoekstra from Canada has expressed astonishment at the overwhelming response the petition has received. The online petition, which has gathered over 100,000 signatures, calls for Hoekstra to be declared persona non grata and removed from his position as U.S. ambassador to Canada.
Lee Walker, the woman leading the petition, highlighted that the significant number of signatures reflects widespread discomfort among Canadians with Hoekstra’s alignment with President Donald Trump’s rhetoric on Canadian sovereignty. The petition accuses Hoekstra of undermining Canada-U.S. diplomatic relations and interfering in Canadian politics, particularly through his remarks on potential annexation of Canada by the U.S.
Walker emphasized that comments of this nature from a diplomatic representative like Hoekstra can have substantial repercussions due to the weight they carry. She criticized Hoekstra’s dismissal of Canadian political leaders’ concerns about the ongoing trade disputes between the two countries.
The petition also urges the Liberal government to investigate U.S. diplomatic interference in Canadian affairs, with a parliamentary committee review suggested. While the U.S. Embassy in Ottawa declined to comment on the petition, Walker stressed that existing tensions in Canada-U.S. relations necessitate a firm stance on respecting Canadian sovereignty.
The petition is set to be presented in the House of Commons by Green Party Leader Elizabeth May. May commended the widespread support for the petition, noting that it underscores the duty of MPs to address citizens’ concerns. She contrasted Hoekstra’s actions unfavorably with previous U.S. ambassadors known for their diplomatic approach, highlighting the need for respectful relationships in international diplomacy.
As Canada and the U.S. navigate trade negotiations, the petition’s presentation aims to spark a critical dialogue on maintaining Canadian sovereignty and addressing diplomatic improprieties. Walker hopes that the petition will convey a strong message against tolerating conduct deemed incompatible with diplomatic norms.
