Lukaszuk Demands Referendum Cancellation Amid Ongoing Trade War with US
Forever Canadian organizer Lukaszuk is calling on Premier Danielle Smith to cancel the referendum on Alberta's separation from Canada, citing the ongoing trade war with the United States as a reason. In an open letter to Smith, Lukaszuk argued that the debate over Alberta's place in Confederation should be put on hold until the economic threat posed by the US can be addressed.
Lukaszuk pointed out that even during normal times, referendums like this can be damaging to the economy and divide Albertans. However, he emphasized that these are not normal times, and the province should prioritize unity in the face of an unprecedented economic threat.
The Alberta NDP has also called on Smith to cancel the October referendum. The US has floated the idea of making Alberta its 51st state, with U.S. representative Andy Harris suggesting this during a TV interview. However, Premier Smith has rejected this idea as a 'non-starter'.