The woman leading a petition to expel U.S. Ambassador Peter Hoekstra from Canada expresses surprise at the extensive support garnered. The online petition, planned for submission to the House of Commons, seeks to have Hoekstra declared persona non grata, urging his removal as the U.S. ambassador to Canada. Over 100,000 individuals have signed the petition to date.
Lee Walker, the initiator of the petition based in Calgary, affirms that the overwhelming response indicates widespread discomfort among Canadians regarding Hoekstra’s alignment with President Trump’s views on Canadian sovereignty. The petition accuses Hoekstra of jeopardizing the Canada-U.S. diplomatic relationship with his interventions in Canadian politics, including his remarks on Canada’s potential annexation by the United States.
Walker emphasizes that an ambassador’s influential position demands responsible language, highlighting the significance of maintaining respect for Canada’s sovereignty. The petition also calls for a review of U.S. diplomatic interference in Canadian affairs by a parliamentary committee.
In response to the petition, the U.S. Embassy in Ottawa declined to comment, acknowledging its awareness of the initiative. Walker notes existing tensions between the U.S. and Canada, stating that the petition aims to underscore the importance of upholding Canada’s sovereignty without compromise.
The petition is scheduled to be presented in Parliament by Green Party Leader Elizabeth May. May commends the substantial public response to the petition and stresses the role of diplomats in nurturing relationships. She contrasts Hoekstra’s approach unfavorably with that of previous ambassadors, emphasizing the necessity of diplomacy in international relations.
The petition serves as a platform for vital discussions amid ongoing trade negotiations between Canada and the U.S. Walker hopes the petition will convey a strong message against inappropriate conduct by foreign envoys. May underscores the unity and resilience of Canadians in asserting their values and standing against perceived intimidation.