Thousands of Canadians call for US ambassador's expulsion

August 12, 2026

Over 70,000 Canadians have signed a petition demanding the expulsion of US Ambassador Pete Hoekstra, accusing him of interfering in Canadian domestic politics and normalizing threats to annex Canada as America's 51st state. The ambassador, a Trump ally, has drawn criticism for reposting annexation comments, hosting a Freedom Convoy leader at official events, and meeting with Alberta separatists. This controversy unfolds as Canada and the United States engage in urgent trade negotiations to prevent 50% American tariffs on billions of dollars worth of Canadian goods set to take effect next week.

Who is affected

Pete Hoekstra, US Ambassador to Canada
More than 70,000 Canadian petition signers
Leanne Walker, the Calgary woman who launched the petition
Green Party leader Elizabeth May
Canadian negotiators involved in trade talks
Prime Minister Mark Carney
Alberta separatists who met with US State Department officials
Ontario's trade representative
Freedom Convoy movement leader (invited to July 4th celebration)
Canadian exporters facing potential 50% tariffs on $20-28 billion in goods

What action is being taken

Canada and the US are engaged in intense trade talks aimed at reaching an agreement before new tariffs take effect next Wednesday
Canadian negotiators are working urgently to avert the planned 50% American tariff
The petition is being tabled in parliament by Elizabeth May later this year
The US embassy has acknowledged awareness of the petition

Why it matters

This situation highlights significant strain in the traditionally close US-Canada relationship at a critical economic juncture. The ambassador's controversial actions have touched on fundamental issues of Canadian sovereignty and territorial integrity, resonating widely with citizens who view his behavior as diplomatic overreach. The timing is particularly consequential as both nations face a tight deadline to resolve trade disputes that could result in substantial economic damage, with tariffs potentially affecting $20-28 billion in Canadian goods and risking further retaliatory measures from Canada.

What's next

New US tariffs are scheduled to take effect next Wednesday
The petition will be tabled in parliament later this year by Elizabeth May
The government must provide a formal response to the petition since it exceeded 500 valid signatures
A parliamentary committee review of "US diplomatic interference in Canadian domestic affairs" is being requested
Canadian media have reported that an interim deal could be reached by Ottawa and Washington in the coming days

Read full article from source: BBC