Alberta Separatists Allegedly Offered U.S. Resources for Independence Support
Alberta separatists are under scrutiny after reports that they offered U.S. officials access to the province’s natural resources in exchange for support for independence. The Globe and Mail published an investigation claiming that members of the Alberta Prosperity Project (APP) presented a document outlining potential benefits of Alberta sovereignty to U.S. officials during meetings last year. These benefits included oil royalty payments, fresh water supplies, and land access for a railway to Alaska. APP co-founder Dennis Modry confirmed the document’s existence, but lawyer Jeff Rath dismissed Modry’s claims as “delusional.”
Several Canadian MPs have condemned the alleged actions, with one demanding an emergency debate to investigate potential foreign interference. Public Interest Alberta has also called for a formal inquiry. The upcoming Alberta referendum on independence, set for October 19, will ask voters whether to begin the process of secession, though it will not automatically trigger it. The referendum has sparked mixed reactions, with some separatists accusing Premier Danielle Smith of delaying the process for political gain.
Modry suggested that the U.S. could help fund Alberta’s transition to independence, with repayment possibilities including oil royalties, land access for a railway, and access to Alberta’s agriculture, forestry, and mining resources. Rath denied these discussions took place, describing them as “completely ludicrous.” The U.S. State Department confirmed meetings with APP members but stated no commitments were made. The White House previously denied supporting Alberta’s independence.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s office reiterated Canada’s expectation that the U.S. respect Canadian sovereignty. The controversy comes amid long-standing grievances from Albertans who feel underrepresented in Ottawa, particularly regarding environmental policies affecting their resource industries. Premier Smith, while favoring Alberta remaining in Canada, has pledged to respect the voices of those advocating for independence.