Alberta separatist leader vows to continue push regardless of Monday vote outcome

Alberta separatist leader Keith Wilson vowed Saturday to continue the independence movement regardless of Monday's vote outcome, declaring supporters had "already won" by making separation a major political issue. The vote asks Albertans whether to remain a province or begin the legal process toward a future referendum on separation. Wilson, co-chair of Let Alberta Decide, spoke at a rally outside the legislature, saying the movement convinced hundreds of thousands that independence was legally possible and forced debate over grievances against Ottawa. The movement has drawn activists opposed to COVID-19 vaccine mandates and supporters of the 2022 trucker convoy, for which Wilson served as lead lawyer. Monday's vote is not a direct referendum on independence, and Premier Danielle Smith called it despite opposing separation herself, citing a poll showing just 22% support. Prime Minister Mark Carney has campaigned against the move, warning of economic uncertainty amid U.S. President Donald Trump's trade war and sovereignty threats.