Power & Politics U.S. ambassador blasts Ontario rep with expletive-laced tirade: witnesses
Oct 29, 2025
Former U.S. ambassador Gordon Giffin provides insight into the diplomatic fallout after Ambassador Pete Hoekstra's explosive comments directed at an Ontario trade representative. Hae-Jing Kim discusses the potential for strengthening Canada-Korea trade, focusing on key sectors like energy and defense. They also explore the implications of Hoekstra's behavior on U.S.-Canada relations and Canada’s strategy for diversifying trade amid tensions. The conversation sheds light on how diplomatic decorum impacts international negotiations.
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Public Dressing-Down In Ottawa
- Witnesses reported U.S. Ambassador Pete Hoekstra loudly berated Ontario trade rep David Paterson at an Ottawa event.
- Sources say Hoekstra used the F-word and skipped the traditional joint toast, showing visible anger about Ontario's U.S. ad.
Ambassador Role Has Two Sides
- John Manley argues an ambassador must both deliver messages and explain Canada's perspective to Washington.
- He says Hoekstra's lecturing tone undermines good relations and fails that second, crucial role.
Use Structural Policy Not Just Rate Cuts
- The Bank of Canada says monetary policy can't fix sector-specific damage from U.S. tariffs.
- Governments must pursue structural actions like new markets, infrastructure, and sector supports to mitigate harm.
