A recent poll has unveiled that a significant majority of Canadians perceive the actions of an Alberta separatist group, which has sought assistance from the United States, as tantamount to treason. This sentiment was echoed by British Columbia Premier David Eby, who firmly condemned the Alberta Prosperity Project’s overtures to Washington during a trade meeting in Ottawa.
Widespread Disapproval Across Canada
According to the survey conducted by Canada Pulse Insights, 71 per cent of Canadians believe that negotiating with a foreign government to undermine national unity constitutes treason. Premier Eby articulated his concerns last Thursday, stating, “To go to a foreign country and ask for assistance in breaking up Canada… is completely inappropriate.” His remarks have resonated deeply, particularly among residents of Saskatchewan and Manitoba, where agreement with his stance reached 82 per cent.
In contrast, Alberta residents showed a divided opinion, with only 56 per cent supporting Eby’s assertion. This divergence highlights the complex political landscape within Canada, particularly in a province that plays a crucial role in the nation’s economy, producing 84 per cent of its crude oil.
Generational and Regional Variations
The poll also indicated that older Canadians were more likely to support Eby’s viewpoint, with 79 per cent of those aged 65 and above expressing agreement. This generational gap suggests a deeper historical context in attitudes toward national sovereignty and unity. John Wright, CEO of Canada Pulse Insights, noted that most Canadians consider appeals to foreign powers for assistance in secession as “beyond the pale,” a sentiment that appears to draw a clear line in the sand regarding national integrity.
In stark contrast to the prevailing national sentiment, Jeffrey Rath, co-founder of the Alberta Prosperity Project, dismissed Eby’s comments as “defamatory,” labelling them a “childish temper tantrum.” Rath’s response encapsulates the contentious nature of the ongoing debate, as the separatist movement continues to garner attention both locally and internationally.
U.S. Engagement and Alberta’s Future
Reports indicate that U.S. officials have engaged with members of the Alberta Prosperity Project three times since April 2025, raising concerns about American involvement in Canadian domestic affairs. The separatist group aims to secure a staggering $500 billion line of credit from the U.S. to support its independence ambitions. Despite this, Alberta Premier Danielle Smith has publicly stated that she does not believe the majority of Albertans desire separation, asserting, “The overwhelming majority of Albertans are not interested in becoming a U.S. state.”
While Smith has opposed the independence movement, her government has facilitated its momentum by lowering the threshold for a referendum from 600,000 signatures to just 177,000. This strategic move has sparked further debate about the legitimate aspirations of Alberta’s separatists and the implications for provincial and national governance.
Political Responses and Future Implications
In light of these developments, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has adopted a cautious approach, emphasizing the need for respect for Canadian sovereignty in his communications with U.S. officials. Carney has stated that he expects the U.S. administration to uphold this principle, reflecting a broader concern about external interference in Canadian politics.
The Alberta Prosperity Project’s ambitions are not merely a regional issue but a potential flashpoint in Canadian-American relations. As tensions rise over Alberta’s separatist aspirations, the Canadian government faces the challenge of navigating this complex political landscape while ensuring national unity remains intact.
Why it Matters
The implications of Alberta’s separatist movement extend far beyond provincial boundaries, touching on fundamental questions of national identity and sovereignty. As Canadians grapple with the notion of a province seeking foreign support for independence, the potential for a crisis in national unity looms large. This situation underscores the delicate balance between regional aspirations and the overarching framework of Canadian governance, reminding citizens of the importance of solidarity in the face of division.
