Trump Ambassador Nominees Face Senate Scrutiny Over Trade, Sovereignty, and Migration Policies

Senators challenge nominees for Canada and Mexico on strained relations, tariffs, and controversial rhetoric during confirmation hearings.

Pete Hoekstra, nominee for U.S. ambassador to Canada, reaffirmed Canada’s sovereignty following President Trump's repeated comments about annexation.
Senators criticized Trump’s tariffs on Canadian goods, which have disrupted trade and strained U.S.-Canada relations, with some businesses reporting significant economic impacts.
Hoekstra acknowledged concerns about fentanyl smuggling but admitted the volume from Canada is minimal, while Canadian officials emphasized more drugs flow north from the U.S. than south.
Ronald Johnson, nominee for U.S. ambassador to Mexico, faced questions about migration drivers and pledged to work on collaborative solutions with Mexico to address violence and human trafficking.
Both nominees highlighted the importance of strengthening alliances but faced bipartisan criticism over the administration's rhetoric and policies toward key allies.