US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent is an unlikely candidate to bail out the expanding separatist movement in Alberta, Canada. He called the province a “natural partner for the US.” His comments come at a time when Alberta is facing increasing pressure to separate from Canada. This aggressive drive is powered by a determined minority of its citizens. This remarkable movement has gained international attention, especially from US officials.
Bessent’s comments highlight Alberta’s huge untapped natural wealth. Just as heartening, he described the monumental challenges the province must clear to develop the critical infrastructure it needs to go forward, especially pipelines to the Pacific. With more than 430,000 signatures on the counter-petition supporting a strong, united Canada, the mood here is all over the map. According to various polls, a majority of Quebec residents do not want to separate from the rest of Canada, even with this separatist effort.
The separatist movement has gone as far as to send conveners to Washington to collaborate with members of the nascent Trump administration. Alberta Premier Danielle Smith’s spokesman said that the new province was indeed open for business — to new pipeline projects. In addition, he underscored their willingness to partner with the US to promote energy trade.
“I think we should let them come down into the US, and Alberta is a natural partner for the US. They have great resources. The Albertans are very independent people.” – Scott Bessent
In response to Bessent’s comments, former President Donald Trump echoed similar sentiments, stating, “Canada lives because of the United States. Remember that, Mark, the next time you make your statements.” US political figures have recently taken a greater interest in Alberta. This is a significant development as energy trade between Alberta and the US remains a hot topic.
Federal Finance Minister Francois-Philippe Champagne countered Bessent’s remarks with a firm stance: “thanks but no thanks, we will do our own things.” This statement underscores the Canadian government’s commitment to maintaining its sovereignty amid external pressures regarding Alberta’s future.
Mitch Sylvestre, an important organizer in the referendum, led the campaign to build pro-independence support. He goes on to declare in no uncertain terms that his movement wants nothing to do with the US. The coalition must gather a minimum of 178,000 valid signatures by May to place a referendum on the ballot.
Prime Minister Mark Carney has just signed an agreement with Alberta to help push through a new oil pipeline to the Pacific. This decision is further evidence of the positive working relationship between the federal and provincial governments in tackling complex energy challenges.
The weather in Alberta is changing, but both sides continue to gauge the heated independence versus partnership realities. Alberta’s budding separatist movement has angered and stunned many Canadians, straining emotions even further. No matter what happens, the result will have a lasting impact on how Canada relates to its southern neighbor.