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Ontario Premier Doug Ford U.S. Ambassador clash has intensified after reports that U.S. Ambassador Pete Hoekstra verbally attacked Ontario’s trade representative, David Paterson, during an Ottawa event. Ford publicly demanded that Hoekstra apologize for the outburst, calling the ambassador’s conduct “unacceptable” and “unbecoming.”
Ford Calls for Immediate Apology
Speaking at a news conference Wednesday, Ford urged Hoekstra to “call Dave up and apologize.” He acknowledged that tensions were high but said, “You’re a good guy, Pete. Dave’s my champion. Let’s bury the hatchet.”
Two Ontario government sources told CTV News that Hoekstra’s tirade was filled with foul language and insults. The confrontation reportedly stemmed from an Ontario government ad targeting U.S. audiences that criticized protectionist trade policies.
Trade Dispute Escalates
The Doug Ford U.S. Ambassador clash comes amid rising trade tensions between Canada and the United States. Last week, U.S. President Donald Trump broke off trade talks with Canada and threatened a 10% tariff on Canadian goods, reacting angrily to Ontario’s anti-tariff campaign.
The ad in question featured former president Ronald Reagan warning about the dangers of protectionism. Ford defended the ad, insisting Ontario’s manufacturing sector has been losing jobs because of U.S. tariffs.
“When someone attacks your province and country, you don’t roll over,” Ford said. “I’ll fight with every tool in my toolbox to protect Ontario’s workers.”
Ad Paused but Not Withdrawn
Although Ford agreed to pause the ad on Monday, it aired over the weekend during the World Series. He said he previewed the campaign with Prime Minister Mark Carney and his chief of staff but declined to reveal their opinions.
Ford emphasized that his goal was to defend Ontario’s auto and steel industries, not to provoke diplomatic disputes. “Our auto jobs, steel, and life sciences sectors are under attack,” he said. “I won’t sit back and watch them disappear.”
Shared Interests Despite Tensions
Despite the friction, Ford described his relationship with Hoekstra as friendly, noting they even have a bet on the World Series. “If he wants to shout, he can call me,” Ford said. “I can go with the best of them.”
Ford made the remarks while announcing a new supply road project with the Webequie First Nation to support Ring of Fire mining development, part of Ontario’s economic resilience efforts amid the trade conflict.
