Alberta Votes: Will Canada's Richest Province Seek Independence?

Canadian Prime Minister Carney urged voters in Alberta on Saturday to reject independence in Monday's referendum, warning that a vote to leave Canada would be a dangerous gamble. He framed the separatist push as playing into U.S. President Trump's hands amid ongoing trade tensions. Carney, who grew up in Alberta's capital Edmonton, campaigned there to strengthen ties strained under his predecessor Trudeau. A "no" majority would trigger a second, binding referendum in 2027. He highlighted a 2025 energy policy deal and new oil pipeline as benefits of staying. Alberta is Canada's wealthiest province due to vast oil, gas, and coal reserves, with many separatists believing independence would end financial worries. However, polls show only 30 percent support secession, despite some separatists having ties to Trump's MAGA movement.