Petition to Expel US Ambassador Gains Momentum in Canada

A petition calling for the expulsion of US Ambassador Pete Hoekstra from Canada has garnered significant support, amassing over 171,000 signatures as of Saturday. This remarkable figure far exceeds the necessary 500 signatures required for discussion in Canada’s House of Commons, highlighting widespread discontent with the Trump administration among Canadians.

The petition accuses Hoekstra of making statements that undermine diplomatic relations between the two nations, notably defending President Trump's controversial assertion to make Canada 'the 51st state' and alleging Canadian interference in US elections.

In response to critical advertisements funded by the Ontario government, Hoekstra warned of potential repercussions, stating that Canada should not expect to evade consequences for its actions. Additionally, the petition raises concerns about Hoekstra’s reported connections with separatist movements in Calgary, which he has denied.

The demands outlined in the petition include formally declaring Hoekstra persona non grata, initiating cross-border discussions regarding his conduct in relation to the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, and directing a parliamentary committee to investigate US diplomatic interference in Canadian affairs.

Authorized by Green Party leader Elizabeth May and initiated by Calgary resident Leanne Walker, the petition was launched on July 21 and remains open for signatures for up to 120 days. While the petition is non-binding, its sheer volume of support reflects a growing unease among Canadians regarding US-Canada relations, especially in light of recent trade tensions and tariffs imposed by Trump.

Source: www.aljazeera.com