Alberta Separatists Seek Trump’s Support for Secession from Canada

A separatist group in Canada is actively seeking assistance from former US President Donald Trump to facilitate Alberta’s potential secession from Canada. This development has prompted a renewed diplomatic tension between the United States and Canada, with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney urging Trump to “respect Canadian sovereignty.” The situation escalated after a report by the Financial Times revealed that US State Department officials had met multiple times with leaders of the Alberta Prosperity Project, a group advocating for a referendum on Alberta’s independence.

The Alberta Prosperity Project has ambitious plans, including a request for a $500 billion line of credit from US Treasury officials to support Alberta’s transition to independence. A White House spokesperson downplayed the significance of these meetings, stating that “administration officials meet with a number of civil society groups. No support or commitments were conveyed.” Despite this reassessment, the dialogue has triggered outrage in Canada, particularly as the nation strives to maintain a united front amid ongoing tensions over trade tariffs and territorial integrity.

Understanding Alberta’s Political Landscape

Alberta, an oil-rich province located in western Canada, is comparable in size to Texas and is home to approximately 5 million residents. The province’s unique cultural and political identity is shaped by its robust energy and agricultural sectors, as well as its commitment to economic individualism and low taxation. Known as “the energy province,” Alberta accounts for around 84% of Canada’s total crude oil production, making it a significant player in the national economy.

The political climate in Alberta is characterized by a conservative ethos, although urban centers like Calgary and Edmonton exhibit more progressive views. Premier Danielle Smith has maintained a cordial relationship with Trump, visiting his Mar-a-Lago resort in January 2023. In contrast, leaders from other provinces have expressed considerable opposition to Trump’s policies, particularly those perceived as threatening to Canadian sovereignty.

Reasons Behind the Push for Independence

Supporters of Alberta’s independence have long felt marginalized by the federal government in Ottawa, arguing that decisions made at the national level do not reflect their interests. They contend that federal climate change initiatives hinder Alberta’s oil industry and that the province contributes more in taxes than it receives in return. Michael Solberg, a partner at New West Public Affairs, noted that “western alienation has existed since confederation,” with feelings of disenfranchisement increasing during periods of federal leadership that are perceived as unfavorable to Alberta.

The COVID-19 lockdowns and over a decade of Liberal governance have exacerbated these sentiments. Following Carney’s victory in the 2025 federal election, the Alberta legislature passed legislation aimed at simplifying the process for organizing a referendum on independence. However, the separatist movement lacks cohesive leadership and is primarily driven by a small group of vocal activists, with no separatist political parties currently holding seats in the Alberta legislature.

Trump’s return to the political arena has invigorated the independence movement, with many supporters viewing him as a potential ally. At a recent rally advocating for Alberta’s independence, attendees sported “Make Alberta Great Again” hats and hailed Trump as “North America’s best asset.” Some rally participants expressed a desire for Alberta not only to gain independence but to join the United States as the 51st state.

The Path to a Referendum

There are indications that a referendum on Alberta’s independence could be forthcoming. According to Solberg, it is “highly likely” that such a vote will be called, which would be the first of its kind since the 1995 Quebec referendum, where voters narrowly opted to remain part of Canada. A separate separatist group, Stay Free Alberta, has been actively gathering signatures for a petition to prompt the provincial government to call a referendum, requiring 177,732 valid signatures by May 2024.

Despite the momentum, public opinion polling reveals that support for Alberta’s secession remains relatively low. A January survey conducted by Pollara Strategic Insights indicated that only 19% of Albertans support the idea of independence. Many individuals signing the petition may be expressing symbolic support rather than a genuine desire for secession, aiming to strengthen Alberta’s negotiating position with the federal government.

Opposition to the independence movement is also significant, particularly among Indigenous communities whose treaties predate the establishment of Alberta. In response to concerns from these communities, the provincial government has included provisions in the referendum bill to protect treaty rights, regardless of the outcome.

While Premier Smith has publicly stated her opposition to secession, she acknowledged the legitimacy of the grievances expressed by separatists. Even if a referendum were to pass, the complexities of the secession process would pose significant challenges. Solberg emphasized that the legal and economic implications of Alberta’s independence are fraught with uncertainty, leaving many questions unanswered about the feasibility and consequences of breaking away from Canada.

As the situation develops, the focus remains on Alberta’s political landscape and the potential impact of these separatist movements on the broader US-Canada relationship.