Tens of thousands of Canadian citizens have joined a petition urging for the expulsion of the U.S. Ambassador to Canada, Pete Hoekstra. The online petition demands that Hoekstra be declared persona non grata and calls for the Canadian government to seek his removal from the ambassadorial position. The petition, which will be presented in the House of Commons later this year, has garnered nearly 60,000 signatures, showing a significant increase in support within a short period.
Accusations against Hoekstra include statements that allegedly undermine the diplomatic ties between Canada and the U.S. and his involvement in Canadian political matters in a manner inconsistent with diplomatic norms. The petition also urges the Liberal government to task a parliamentary committee with examining U.S. interference in Canadian affairs.
The initiative, initiated by a resident of Calgary, will be introduced in Parliament by Elizabeth May, the leader of the Green Party. Notably, Members of Parliament have the authority to table petitions in the House of Commons without necessarily endorsing their content. The petition further criticizes Hoekstra for normalizing discussions regarding the annexation of Canada by the United States.
In a public address in Halifax last year, Hoekstra expressed disappointment and frustration over what he described as an “anti-American” tone during the recent Canadian federal election campaign. He also condemned Canadian leaders for characterizing the Trump administration’s tariff policies as a trade war. Hoekstra has been vocal in his criticism of Canadian politicians for discouraging travel to the U.S. and for removing American alcohol products from store shelves. When questioned by Canadian journalists regarding his remarks, Hoekstra defended himself by stating that he is responsible for conveying the views of the U.S. President.
The U.S. Embassy in Ottawa declined to comment specifically on the petition, stating only that they are aware of its existence. It is worth noting that the expulsion of a diplomatic representative, known as persona non grata, is a measure outlined in the UN’s Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, allowing a host country to revoke diplomatic immunity and expel an individual.
Canada has previously expelled diplomats from other countries, including China and India, due to allegations of foreign interference. Notably, in 2023, a Chinese diplomat was declared persona non grata for reportedly targeting a Canadian Member of Parliament. Additionally, in a separate incident, Canada expelled several Indian diplomats following accusations of involvement in activities targeting Canadian citizens. The Canadian government under Prime Minister Mark Carney has been actively engaging in efforts to enhance relations with both China and India.