Alberta separatist denies offering resources to US for independence support

Jeff Rath, an Alberta independence advocate, has strongly denied allegations that separatist leaders discussed offering Alberta’s water and oil-related benefits to the U.S. in exchange for support for independence. In an interview on *Straight Up with Marc Patrone*, Rath called the claims “complete fiction,” emphasizing that no such negotiations took place during meetings with U.S. State Department officials.

Rath acknowledged that discussions did cover potential economic collaborations, such as expanded pipeline access, Gulf Coast entry, and increased oil production with American investment. However, he firmly rejected the idea of trading Alberta’s natural resources for political backing. He also disputed a *Globe and Mail* report that cited Dennis Modry as proposing Alberta’s water as part of the deal, stating Modry denied making such comments.

Rath suggested the controversy is politically motivated, aimed at undermining the independence movement. He also dismissed calls from Liberal MP Corey Hogan to regulate “freelance negotiating trips.” Additionally, Rath criticized Mark Carney’s proposed pipeline as a “phony pipeline announcement,” arguing it only initiates a lengthy review process rather than approving construction.

Rath clarified that the independence movement seeks a “free and independent country,” not Alberta’s admission as the 51st U.S. state. He stressed that the delegation’s meetings in Washington were transparent and focused on economic partnerships, not political deals.