Petition to revoke Elon Musk's Canadian citizenship gains traction
Canadians are seeking to revoke Elon Musk's citizenship in their country. A petition addressing this issue is currently gathering signatures, with over 171,000 people signing it.
The petition, launched on February 20, accuses Musk of undermining Canada's sovereignty and influencing its elections. Although symbolic, it has garnered the support of Member of Parliament Charlie Angus from the New Democratic Party, according to the BBC. Angus, who does not plan to seek reelection, supports the initiative that may not receive a government response due to a possible parliamentary dissolution.
Elon Musk, born in Pretoria, South Africa, also holds Canadian citizenship because his mother was born in the Canadian city of Regina.
Musk moved to Canada at the age of 18 and later relocated to the United States. He was accused of working illegally on a student visa but denies these allegations. In 2002, he gained U.S. citizenship.
Musk attacks sovereignty
The petition outlines specific arguments for revoking his citizenship.
"Elon Musk has engaged in activities that go against the national interest of Canada; he has used his wealth and power to influence our elections; he has now become a member of a foreign government that is attempting to erase Canadian sovereignty; and the attempts of Elon Musk to attack Canadian sovereignty must be addressed," it states.
Losing Canadian citizenship can occur in rare cases, such as involvement in terrorist activities, espionage, or treason. Concealing a criminal past or providing false information during the Canadian citizenship process can also be grounds for revocation.. Disloyalty to the Canadian state is also among the recognized reasons for revoking citizenship.
Tensions between the U.S. and Canada have escalated since Trump's return, with him suggesting that Canada could become a U.S. state. In response, Canadian leaders are threatening counter-tariffs. The conflict is spreading beyond the government, with Canadians boycotting American products and canceling trips to the U.S.
Trade tensions between the U.S. and Canada
Trade tensions between the U.S. and Canada intensified when American tariffs prompted Canadian politicians to discuss a trade war openly. Elon Musk's products, including Starlink, have become a focal point. Ontario's Secretary of State Doug Ford criticized the Starlink contract, which was supposed to provide internet in rural areas, and announced its cancellation.
Chrystia Freeland, a member of parliament, suggested implementing 100% tariffs on Tesla and American alcohol in response to President Trump's actions. Freeland emphasized the need for "effective and precise" reactions to U.S. policies. Soon, there will be elections for her party's new leader, which may result in more decisive positions.
President Trump temporarily suspended the imposition of tariffs on Canadian and Mexican products for a month, citing concerns over porous borders that allow dangerous fentanyl to reach the U.S. This decision is part of a broader trade strategy causing concern in Canada.
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