Carney says Canada won't expel U.S. envoy over Trump 51st state talk

Carney Rejects Calls for Expulsion

Prime Minister Mark Carney stated on Tuesday that Canada will not expel U.S. Ambassador Pete Hoekstra following the diplomat's amplification of President Donald Trump's reference to Canada as the "51st state."

Carney addressed the matter during a press conference in Longueuil, Que., telling reporters that expelling the ambassador was not under consideration.

Trump's Social Media Post and Hoekstra's Response

Trump shared a news article on his Truth Social account on Monday highlighting Canada's technical recession based on the latest GDP figures from Statistics Canada.

Hoekstra reposted a screenshot of the comment on his official X account on Tuesday, prompting questions about whether Canada could continue working with the ambassador.

Carney Emphasizes Ongoing Relations

Carney noted that the United States remains Canada's largest trading partner and key security ally, adding that his government must engage with the current administration as it stands.

A U.S. Embassy spokesperson confirmed to Global News that sharing such posts reflects standard practice.

Poilievre Urges Focus on Domestic Issues

Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre described Trump's comment as ridiculous and said it should not distract from challenges facing Canadian families, including food insecurity linked to federal policies.

Poilievre called for renewed attention on reversing measures that have increased costs for households.

Trade Talks Proceed in Washington

Canada-U.S. Trade Minister Dominic LeBlanc travelled to Washington on Tuesday to meet U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, accompanied by chief negotiator Janice Charette.

LeBlanc sent a letter to counterparts in the United States and Mexico advocating renewal of the Canada-U.S.-Mexico Agreement for an additional 16 years ahead of the July 1 review deadline.

Carney Downplays Social Media Influence

Carney observed that Trump is an active social media user whose posting volume has increased recently, but said Ottawa would not react to every comment.

He pointed to LeBlanc's meetings as evidence that practical work on bilateral trade continues uninterrupted.