**Calls for Alberta Independence Intensify Amid Growing Discontent with Federal Government**

In the face of calls for greater autonomy, the Alberta Prosperity Project highlights a growing sentiment in favor of independence, fueled by cultural ties to the U.S. and dissatisfaction with federal governance.

 

Amid a backdrop of political tension and dissatisfaction with the federal government, conversations surrounding Alberta's independence are gaining momentum. In Lethbridge, a recent gathering saw local citizens fervently discussing the province's future, with half of the 100 attendees expressing support for separation from Canada.

The Alberta Prosperity Project, co-led by Dennis Modry, has been at the forefront of the independence movement. Modry, a retired heart surgeon, asked the crowd how many would favor a greater role for Alberta in Canada, and about a dozen hands went up. However, when he asked about separation, a significant portion raised their hands in agreement. In a particularly striking question, Modry asked, "How many would like Alberta to join the U.S.?" This time, half the audience voiced their approval.

The current political climate follows remarks made by U.S. President Donald Trump about potentially making Canada the 51st state, a thought that echoes among some Albertans who feel culturally aligned with their southern neighbors. Jeffrey Rath, a project co-founder, remarked that Alberta shares more cultural similarities with regions in the United States than with the rest of Canada.

The sentiment for separation is not entirely new; it has been brewing for years in the oil-rich provinces of Alberta and Saskatchewan, where residents often feel neglected by federal policies. This feeling, termed "western alienation," intensified under former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's administration due to environmental regulations perceived as detrimental to Alberta's economic interests.

Recent polls suggest that the Liberal Party, now led by Mark Carney, may secure a fourth consecutive election win, which might exacerbate western Canadians' frustrations. Preston Manning, a well-known conservative figure from Alberta, expressed that strong dissatisfaction among Westerners could lead to calls for secession if the Liberals remain in power.

While many within Alberta support the idea of greater autonomy, they are divided on the separation issue. Some, like Judy Schneider, are willing to consider a vote for independence, citing a lack of understanding from Carney about Alberta's needs. In contrast, others like Lorna Guitton argue for improved relations with Ottawa rather than an outright split, since an independence referendum can serve as leverage in negotiations.

Alberta's Premier, Danielle Smith, has also warned of a possible "national unity crisis" if local demands—particularly regarding oil and gas production—are not acknowledged by the next federal leader. While the idea of full independence seems distant—with only one in four Albertans reportedly supporting such a move—the divisive sentiment poses a looming challenge for Canada's next prime minister as regional disparities continue to wane relations between Western provinces and the federal government.

Despite some people voicing concerns over separation, a segment of the populace remains optimistic about bridging gaps. Steve Lachlan from Lethbridge noted that while the West feels underrepresented in Ottawa, there is interest in collaboration rather than division. Poll findings hint that the Liberal Party could also increase its presence in Alberta, signaling not entirely one-sided allegiances within this politically charged atmosphere.

The intricate dynamics of Alberta’s aspirations and the broader national landscape might well be pivotal in shaping Canada’s future, particularly as engagement with American interests continues to rise under the influence of leadership and ongoing political discourse.