Alberta independence vote tests Canadian unity amid U.S. threats

Albertans vote Monday on whether to begin a process that could lead to independence from Canada, a test of national unity amid U.S. President Donald Trump's trade war and annexation threats. The vote is not a direct referendum but a decision on starting legal steps toward a future separation vote. More than 1.35 million Albertans cast advance ballots, far exceeding early turnout in the 2023 provincial election. Prime Minister Mark Carney urged a decisive rejection, while separatist leaders say the movement will persist regardless. The vote follows a deadly fire at a military base that killed four service members. Alberta holds the world's fourth-largest proven oil reserves, and grievances center on federal energy policies. Separatist leaders have met with U.S. officials, though they reject becoming an American state. Indigenous leaders say First Nations consent is required for any separation.