Peter Hoekstra approved as the new US ambassador to Canada by Senate

The Senate voted 60-37 to approve President Donald Trump’s selection of Peter Hoekstra as the new U.S. ambassador to Canada. Hoekstra’s appointment comes at a crucial time as the two countries navigate strained relations exacerbated by trade disputes and provocative statements from Trump.

Trump’s imposition of tariffs on Canadian goods and his suggestion that Canada should be the 51st state of the U.S. have fueled tensions between the two nations. Democrats and others have expressed concerns about the future of U.S.-Canada relations under Trump’s administration.

Despite the apprehensions surrounding Trump’s approach towards Canada, Hoekstra’s confirmation process proceeded relatively smoothly in the Senate. Going forward, he will be tasked with addressing and improving the diplomatic ties between the U.S. and Canada.

Trump applauds after Howard Lutnick was sworn in as U.S. commerce secretary in the Oval Office at the White House on Feb. 21, 2025. (Win McNamee/Getty Images)

In response, Trump slapped Ottawa with a blanket 25% tariff on all Canadian imports in a move to dissuade American consumers from purchasing Canadian goods, with the exception of energy imports, which saw a 10% tariff. 

Additionally, Trump announced a 25% tariff on all imported vehicles and parts, which will also drastically affect Canada as automobiles are a chief export item to the U.S.