The individual leading a petition calling for the expulsion of U.S. Ambassador Pete Hoekstra from Canada due to his controversial statements has seen an unexpected surge in support. The online petition, slated for submission to the House of Commons, demands that Hoekstra be deemed persona non grata and removed from his role as U.S. ambassador. Over 70,000 signatures have been collected thus far, doubling in a span of just 24 hours.
Lee Walker, the initiator of the petition from Calgary, expressed surprise at the overwhelming response, indicating widespread discomfort among Canadians with Hoekstra’s alignment with President Trump’s viewpoints on Canadian sovereignty. The petition accuses Hoekstra of interfering in Canadian politics and normalizing discussions about Canada being annexed by the U.S., actions deemed inappropriate for a diplomatic official.
Furthermore, the petition urges the Canadian government to investigate U.S. diplomatic meddling in Canadian affairs. The U.S. Embassy in Ottawa acknowledged the petition but refrained from elaborating. Walker emphasized the existing tensions in U.S.-Canada relations, asserting that respect for Canada’s sovereignty should not be negotiable. Negotiations between the two countries continue amidst looming trade disputes, with efforts to secure a trade deal ongoing.
The petition is scheduled to be presented in Parliament by Green Party Leader Elizabeth May. Despite uncertainties about official actions following its submission, Walker hopes the petition will serve as a clear message that such behavior from a foreign ambassador cannot be overlooked.
