Former Congressman Pete Hoekstra, who is President Donald Trump’s nominee to be the U.S. ambassador to Canada, made a clear statement during his Senate confirmation hearing. When asked by Senator Chris Coons if he believed Canada is a sovereign nation rather than America’s 51st state, Hoekstra affirmed, “Canada is a sovereign state, yes.” This response marks a slight divergence from Trump’s stance on Canada.
President Trump has frequently suggested that Canada would be better off as part of the United States and has expressed frustration with what he believes is Canada taking advantage of the U.S. He referred to the trade deficit with Canada, which includes valuable resources like oil, as a type of subsidy. “We don’t need their cars. We don’t need their energy. We don’t need their lumber,” Trump stated, adding that if Canada were annexed, it would be “one of the great states.”
Trump’s comments have stirred unrest among Canadians, particularly as he has launched a trade dispute by imposing tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminum. In retaliation, Canada has raised tariffs on a variety of American goods.
Hoekstra, who previously served as ambassador to the Netherlands during Trump’s first term, highlighted his appreciation for Canada as a neighbor, especially being from Michigan. He noted that 36 American states regard Canada as their top trading partner and mentioned his experience dealing with Canadian trade issues during his time in Congress.
As confirmation hearings proceed, the relationship between the U.S. and Canada remains a focal point, particularly regarding trade and sovereignty.
