More than 60,000 Canadians have signed a petition calling for the expulsion of US ambassador Pete Hoekstra, accusing him of interfering in Canadian politics and legitimising President Donald Trump’s suggestions that Canada could become a US state. The campaign highlights growing diplomatic strain as the two countries negotiate urgently over threatened US tariffs.

The petition also cites Hoekstra’s contacts and comments concerning Alberta separatists, his reposting of Trump’s “51st state” remarks, and criticism over inviting a Freedom Convoy figure to an official event. It will be presented to Parliament by Green Party leader Elizabeth May; petitions with at least 500 valid signatures require a government response. Meanwhile, Washington plans 50% tariffs on roughly $20bn–$28bn of Canadian goods from next Wednesday, unless an agreement is reached.