Trump nominates former Michigan congressman Pete Hoekstra to be ambassador to Canada
Donald Trump, the president-elect of the United States, has chosen former Michigan congressman Pete Hoekstra to serve as the ambassador to Canada. Hoekstra, who served in the U.S. House of Representatives from 1993 to 2011, previously held the role of ambassador to the Netherlands in Trump’s first administration.
Trump expressed his confidence in Hoekstra, stating that he will help in putting America first during his second term. Hoekstra, in response, expressed his honor at the opportunity on social media.
This nomination marks a departure from recent U.S. ambassadors to Ottawa, as Hoekstra brings a mix of elected experience and party leadership. As the former chair of the Michigan Republican Party, he is well-versed in both realms.
Hoekstra is one of Trump’s initial ambassadorial nominees, alongside picks for roles in the United Nations, NATO, and Israel. Bruce Heyman, who served as Obama’s envoy to Canada, commended the early selection and highlighted Hoekstra’s border state background as an asset for understanding and engaging with Canada.
During his time in Congress, Hoekstra chaired the House intelligence committee, which adds a layer of significance to his potential role in a Washington currently grappling with concerns about foreign interference.
In a recent call with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, Trump emphasized trade and security issues, including Canadian tariffs on Chinese goods and the presence of Chinese fentanyl in the U.S. market. The conversation underscores the importance of the Canada-U.S. relationship, which Hoekstra is poised to navigate.
Trump’s announcement of Hoekstra’s nomination also highlighted the Canada-U.S.-Mexico Agreement negotiated during his first term. The agreement, up for review in 2026, may see alterations under Trump’s administration, along with potential pressure on Canada to hasten its NATO defense spending commitments.
Before assuming the ambassador role, Hoekstra must undergo confirmation by the U.S. Senate, a process expected to take place in early 2025. David Cohen currently serves as the U.S. ambassador to Canada, a position he has held since 2021.
