Peter Hoekstra’s nomination as the next U.S. ambassador to Canada was approved by the Senate in a 60-37 vote on Wednesday, tasking him with navigating the complex relationship between the two countries.

His confirmation occurs during a particularly strained period, marked by tariffs imposed by President Trump and his repeated suggestions that Canada should become the 51st U.S. state.

Despite concerns, especially among Democratic senators, regarding Trump’s intentions for Canada, Hoekstra’s confirmation process proceeded relatively smoothly.

“I do have a special appreciation for Canada as a neighbor,” Hoekstra told senators during his confirmation hearing last month.

When questioned by Senator Christopher Coons, Hoekstra affirmed that “Canada is a sovereign state.”

However, he refrained from commenting on President Trump’s repeated proposals for the U.S. to incorporate Canada, which Ottawa has consistently rejected.

“How the president and the relationship between the former prime minister in Canada and the characteristics, the nature of that relationship… I don’t know,” he stated.

Hoekstra, a former ambassador to the Netherlands and a Michigan lawmaker, highlighted the close ties between his home state and Canada in his opening remarks last month.

“My home state is connected to Canada by four and soon to be five, bridge crossings along maritime board, across the Great Lakes, vital lakes that drive businesses, jobs and livelihoods in both states,” Hoekstra said. “If confirmed, I will work tirelessly to build on that record of cooperation extended, obviously nationally.”

Canada is the largest trading partner of the United States and the top buyer of U.S. goods.

“I think there’s 36 states that see Canada as their number one trading partner internationally,” Hoekstra confirmed.

The U.S. is also Canada’s largest trading partner and the primary purchaser of Canadian goods; however, Trump has frequently described the relationship as “unfair.”

In 2023, the U.S. imported approximately $443 billion worth of goods from Canada, representing 72% of all Canadian exports, while Canada imported $317 billion in U.S. goods, accounting for 49% of Ottawa’s total imports.

In response, Trump imposed a 25% tariff on all Canadian imports, aiming to discourage American consumers from buying Canadian goods, with the exception of energy imports, which faced a 10% tariff.

Trump also announced a 25% tariff on all imported vehicles and parts, which is expected to significantly impact Canada, as automobiles are a major export to the U.S.