President-elect Donald Trump has nominated Michigan Republican Party Chairman Pete Hoekstra to be the U.S. ambassador to Canada, Trump announced on Wednesday.

Hoekstra was officially recognized as chairman by the national Republican Party in February during a clash over leadership with the state party about the removal of Kristina Karamo as the party's chair. Karamo was voted out during a meeting on Jan. 6 and did not accept the results.

Trump had endorsed Hoekstra over Karamo. Both were loyal supporters of Trump.

Hoekstra was present at many campaign events Trump held during his recent campaign.

Hoekstra served as ambassador to the Netherlands during Trumps first term. Prior to that, he was a U.S. House representative from 1993 to 2011.

Trump released a statement about Hoekstra's nomination:

I am very pleased to announce that former Ambassador, and former Congressman, Pete Hoekstra, has been nominated as my United States Ambassador to Canada. Pete is well-respected in the Great State of Michigan - A State we won sizably. He represented Michigans 2nd District in Congress for nearly 20 years, where he was also Chairman of the House Intelligence Committee, and was a great help to our Campaign as Chairman of the Michigan Republican Party. I overhauled the disastrous NAFTA Agreement, the worst Trade Deal in the History of the United States, which was switched to the USMCA (Mexico/Canada), which no one thought could be done. We brought Trade with Mexico and Canada to a level playing field for our wonderful Farmers and Working Families. In my Second Term, Pete will help me once again put AMERICA FIRST. He did an outstanding job as United States Ambassador to the Netherlands during our first four years, and I am confident that he will continue to represent our Country well in this new role. Thank you, Pete!

Two people were critically hurt and others suffered minor injuries after a large explosion at a condominium complex in Orion Township on Tuesday.

It happened at Keatington New Town Association near Baldwin and Waldon roads.

Two people are unaccounted for Tuesday night. Authorities are working to learn if they were in the area at the time of the explosion as they're unable to get into some buildings that have not yet been deemed safe.

Fire Chief Ryan Allen and Township Supervisor Chris Barnett provide an update in the video player below: Officials provide update on explosion in Orion Township

Investigators believe one building in the complex exploded and caused a massive fire and damage to multiple units. It is being called a potential gas explosion.

At this time, initial reports say that it's possibly or probably a gas leak that caused an explosion, Orion Township Fire Chief Ryan Allen said.

People are being asked to avoid the area.

7 News Detroit reporter Brett Kast reports live from the scene below:

Allen said victims were transported rapidly to the hospital.

Waldon Road will be closed between Joslyn and Baldwin roads in both directions, the sheriff's office said. Some buildings nearby have been checked by officials and deemed safe, according to the fire chief.

Watch video from near the explosion below: Viewer video of Orion Township explosion

Authorities are continuing to assess the area. Some parts of the area have not yet been deemed safe for crews to search.

DTE Energy and Consumers Energy helped officials at the scene. They are also using a gas detector at the scene as authorities continue the relief effort.

Watch drone video from above the scene below: Drone captures scene of explosion at Orion Township condo complex

Nearby churches have opened their doors for those who have been displaced. Residents have been urged to go to Woodside Bible Church if they need assistance.

Officials are planning longer-term relief plans.

Hear an earlier update from the fire chief in the video player below: Orion Township Fire Chief Ryan Allen on explosion

Several surrounding agencies responded to the scene.

7 News Detroit has crews at the scene and is working to learn more.

Stay with 7 News Detroit and WXYZ.com for the latest on this breaking news.

An animal shelter in Pontiac is reaching out to fill the plates of cats and dogs this Thanksgiving.

A $25 donation will provide a pet-friendly holiday meal to animals at the Michigan Animal Rescue League. It includes special versions of classics like savory green beans and sweet potatoes.

Donations will also go toward rescuing and caring for animals at MARL.

You can watch them enjoy their meals on the shelter's Facebook, Instagram and TikTok pages.

If you're interested in donating, visit marl.org.