A Calgary-based woman leading a petition to expel U.S. Ambassador Pete Hoekstra from Canada expressed surprise at the overwhelming response, with over 100,000 signatures gathered by Thursday afternoon. The petition, set for presentation in the House of Commons, calls for Hoekstra’s removal due to statements undermining Canadian sovereignty and diplomatic relations with the U.S.
The initiator, Lee Walker, highlighted concerns over Hoekstra echoing Trump’s rhetoric and his controversial remarks suggesting Canada’s annexation by the U.S. The petition accuses Hoekstra of interfering in Canadian politics and urges the Canadian government to review U.S. diplomatic interference. Walker emphasized the importance of respecting Canada’s sovereignty and the potential consequences of normalizing such rhetoric.
Despite Hoekstra’s criticism of Canadian political leaders and ongoing trade tensions, Walker reiterated the need to address the ambassador’s behavior. The petition, to be presented by Green Party Leader Elizabeth May, aims to spark a crucial dialogue. May emphasized the diplomatic role of cultivating relationships, contrasting Hoekstra’s approach with that of past ambassadors who prioritized diplomacy.
As trade negotiations continue between Canada and the U.S., the petition underscores a growing sense of Canadian solidarity and opposition to perceived diplomatic transgressions. Walker hopes the petition will serve as a clear message that inappropriate conduct by a foreign ambassador cannot be overlooked.