Tens of thousands of Canadians have signed a petition urging the expulsion of Pete Hoekstra, the U.S. Ambassador to Canada, citing actions that undermine bilateral relations. The online petition, gaining momentum with nearly 60,000 signatures, calls for Hoekstra to be declared persona non grata and removed from his diplomatic post.
The petition, initiated by a Calgary resident and soon to be presented in the House of Commons by Green Party Leader Elizabeth May, highlights concerns over Hoekstra’s interventions in Canadian political discussions and his remarks jeopardizing the Canada-U.S. diplomatic ties. It also demands a parliamentary review of U.S. interference in Canadian affairs.
Hoekstra sparked controversy by suggesting the possibility of Canada’s annexation by the United States, a statement criticized for normalizing such threats. His comments have drawn backlash, with critics accusing him of straining relations between the two countries.
The U.S. Embassy in Ottawa acknowledged the petition but refrained from commenting on the matter. The petition’s call for Hoekstra’s expulsion aligns with previous instances where Canada expelled diplomats, such as representatives from China and India, over allegations of foreign interference.
The persona non grata declaration, allowing the removal of diplomatic immunity and the expulsion of an individual from the country, is a diplomatic tool recognized under the UN’s Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations. Hoekstra’s actions have fueled public discontent, prompting a significant response from concerned Canadians seeking accountability in diplomatic relations.