Potential Democratic presidential candidate Pete Buttigieg addressed the current state of U.S.-Canada relations during a keynote speech in Ottawa on Monday. He expressed surprise at the tensions between the two countries, stating, "I did not imagine we would find ourselves in a moment like this." Buttigieg emphasized that the negative sentiments directed at Canada do not represent the views of all Americans.

The event was hosted by Canada 2020, a progressive think tank, and attended by various Canadian politicians and former officials. Buttigieg's remarks came amid ongoing discussions about tariffs and U.S. President Donald Trump's comments suggesting Canada could be the 51st state.

Buttigieg aimed to challenge the notion that the current administration's actions reflect the will of the American people. He stated, "The first thing I want to say is: 'I get it. And most of us get it.'" His comments contrasted sharply with those of U.S. Ambassador to Canada Pete Hoekstra, who recently expressed disappointment over what he described as anti-American sentiment in Canada.

Hoekstra remarked, "I'm disappointed that I came to Canada — a Canada that it is very, very difficult to find Canadians who are passionate about the American-Canadian relationship." This sentiment reflects a growing distance between Canadians and the U.S., according to Buttigieg.

Buttigieg, a vocal critic of Trump, noted that the current strain in relations is a result of the actions of one government rather than a fundamental issue between the two nations. He said, "What's happening between us is a storm that's been provoked by what one government is doing, rather than something that calls into question the fundamentals of our relationship, which is between peoples, not only governments."

During the event, former Canadian cabinet minister Seamus O'Regan engaged Buttigieg in a fireside chat, discussing various topics, including Buttigieg's potential presidential ambitions. Buttigieg previously ran in the 2020 Democratic primaries and served as transportation secretary under President Joe Biden. He hinted at a possible run for the presidency in 2028.

O'Regan also referenced a recent book by Kamala Harris, in which she mentioned considering Buttigieg as a running mate but expressed concerns about the dynamics of a diverse ticket. Buttigieg responded, "There's only one way to find out what the country can handle," which drew applause from the audience.