Kathmandu— An official petition before Canada’s House of Commons has garnered over 171,000 signatures demanding the expulsion of United States ambassador Pete Hoekstra, fueled by growing discontent with the policies of U.S. President Donald Trump. The petition, authorized by Green Party leader Elizabeth May and initiated by Calgary resident Leanne Walker, exceeds the 500-signature threshold required for parliamentary debate. It accuses Ambassador Hoekstra of undermining Canada-US diplomatic relations through public statements and points to alleged connections with separatist groups, highlighting a significant strain in bilateral ties stemming from trade disputes and broader policy disagreements.

Growing Discontent With U.S. Policies

The petition underscores increasing Canadian frustration with the Trump administration’s approach to international relations and trade. Recent months have seen escalating tensions over tariffs, infrastructure projects, and even environmental issues like cross-border wildfire smoke. In July, President Trump imposed new 50 percent tariffs on certain Canadian goods, alleging unfair trade practices, prompting Canada to cancel a planned celebration for the Gordie Howe International Bridge linking Windsor, Ontario, with Detroit, Michigan.

Specific Grievances Against Ambassador Hoekstra

The petition specifically targets Ambassador Hoekstra’s conduct, citing “repeatedly making public statements undermining Canada-US diplomatic relations.” He previously defended President Trump's suggestion of adding Canada as the “51st” US state and accused Canadian officials of interfering in U.S. elections following advertisements from the Ontario government criticizing Trump’s tariffs. Hoekstra warned that such actions would not go without a response from the United States, further escalating tensions. The petition also references reported ties between Hoekstra and individuals associated with separatist movements in Calgary, allegations he has denied.

Petition Demands Parliamentary Action

The petition makes three formal requests of the Canadian government. It calls for the House of Commons to declare Pete Hoekstra *persona non grata* and request his removal as ambassador. Secondly, it demands cross-border talks addressing what petitioners view as a pattern of conduct violating the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations. Finally, it asks that a parliamentary committee investigate U.S. diplomatic interference in Canadian domestic affairs.

Shifting Public Opinion

A Pew Research survey conducted in June revealed a dramatic decline in Canadians’ perception of the United States as a reliable partner. In 2022, 83 percent of Canadians viewed the US favorably; however, that number has plummeted to just 35 percent, with 65 percent now considering the U.S. unreliable. This shift reflects growing concerns about American policies and their impact on Canadian interests.

While the petition is non-binding, it will be formally debated in Canada’s House of Commons within 45 days, signaling a willingness to address these issues at the parliamentary level. The outcome of that debate remains uncertain.

(With inputs from Al Jazeera)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.