Alberta separatists seek US support amid foreign interference concerns

Alberta separatists have been reaching out to U.S. political figures for support, raising concerns about foreign interference in Canada’s domestic affairs. Mount Royal University professor Duane Bratt described these actions as political interference but stopped short of calling them treason. His remarks came in response to a Globe and Mail investigation that uncovered extensive contacts between Alberta separatist leaders and figures connected to the Trump administration.

The investigation revealed that Republican operatives traveled to Alberta to assist the separatist campaign, while separatist leaders met with U.S. State Department officials multiple times. According to one separatist leader, Dennis Modry, proposals discussed included access to Alberta’s fresh water, oil royalties, new pipelines, and U.S. financial assistance. However, another separatist leader, Jeff Rath, disputed these claims, stating that the meetings were more general in nature. The White House denied offering any support or commitments.

Bratt has been warning about U.S. interference in Alberta’s referendum since April, citing historical examples of foreign involvement in Canadian politics. He expressed particular concern about the scale of American engagement with Alberta separatists, which he believes surpasses previous instances of foreign interference. He also noted that the separatist movement has developed its own organizations and communications networks, drawing support from post-COVID freedom movements and alternative media.

Looking ahead to the referendum, Bratt anticipates potential disputes over the legitimacy of the results, particularly if mail-in ballots significantly alter early outcomes. He compared the separatists’ rhetoric to the ‘Stop the Steal’ movement in the U.S., warning of a political response similar to Donald Trump’s refusal to accept the 2020 election results. Bratt also highlighted the challenge facing Alberta Premier Danielle Smith, who must balance separatist sentiment with her work on energy and economic diversification with Prime Minister Mark Carney.