Canadian politicians and experts are expressing opposition to U.S. ambassador Pete Hoekstra’s dissatisfaction with the anti-American sentiment in Canada following U.S. President Donald Trump’s imposition of tariffs. Flavio Volpe, president of the Automotive Parts Manufacturers’ Association and a member of the prime minister’s Canada-U.S. relations council, likened the situation to provoking a response when mistreating someone. He criticized Hoekstra’s approach as lacking in understanding of effective Canada-U.S. diplomacy and suggested that he may not be receptive to advice.
Hoekstra, speaking at an event held by the Halifax Chamber of Commerce, voiced disappointment over the lack of enthusiasm for the American-Canadian relationship among Canadians. He referenced the anti-American tone of recent Canadian election campaigns, characterizing them as detrimental to bilateral relations. Volpe remarked that Hoekstra’s deliberate choice of words indicates a calculated strategy aimed at a specific audience, possibly in Washington.
Stephen Marche, a Canadian novelist and podcast host, echoed Volpe’s sentiments, stating that Hoekstra appears to have little interest in fostering positive U.S.-Canadian relations and advocated for ignoring his rhetoric. Conservative House Leader Andrew Scheer emphasized that Canadians naturally react unfavorably to external actions such as tariffs or annexation threats, asserting that Canada’s identity is defined by its positive attributes and proud history.
Hoekstra criticized a Canadian cabinet minister for using “war” rhetoric when discussing economic strategies, cautioning against such language. Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne defended Canada’s response to tariffs, acknowledging the significant impact on various sectors. Hoekstra defended the tariffs as a means to address trade imbalances, prompting Volpe to dispute the claim and highlight the benefits both countries enjoyed before the recent changes.