Potential U.S. Democratic presidential hopeful Pete Buttigieg expressed surprise at the current state of relations between Canada and the United States. Speaking at a dinner hosted by Canada 2020 in Ottawa, Buttigieg emphasized that the recent tensions and criticisms toward Canada and its government do not reflect the sentiments of the American populace.
Canada 2020, a prominent progressive think-tank, organized the event, which drew a crowd of cabinet ministers, government officials, and distinguished Liberals. During a discussion with former Canadian cabinet minister Seamus O’Regan, Buttigieg acknowledged the strained U.S.-Canada ties exacerbated by tariffs and President Trump’s suggestions of Canada becoming the 51st state.
Buttigieg aimed to debunk the notion that the current U.S. administration’s actions represent the will of all Americans. In contrast to U.S. ambassador Pete Hoekstra’s recent remarks expressing disappointment with anti-American sentiments in Canada, Buttigieg emphasized his belief in the enduring relationship between the two countries.
The former presidential candidate praised Canada’s firm stance on sovereignty during recent trade disputes with the U.S., noting that such actions resonated with progressive Americans and signaled a bond between genuine allies.
Buttigieg, a former mayor and transportation secretary, who ran for president in 2020, is rumored to be contemplating another presidential bid in 2028. During the event, O’Regan mentioned Kamala Harris’s concerns about a potential joint ticket with Buttigieg, citing worries about public reception to a diverse pairing. Buttigieg responded by highlighting the importance of taking risks and elicited applause from the audience.