Alberta Lowers Threshold for 2026 Secession Referendum

Alberta, a conservative and oil-rich Canadian province, is moving toward a 2026 referendum on secession, driven by widespread discontent with the federal Liberal government's policies and perceived economic exploitation. Premier Danielle Smith's government has lowered the threshold for triggering a referendum, making it easier for citizen groups like the Alberta Prosperity Project to collect signatures supporting independence. Polls indicate that about 25 to 30 percent of Albertans favor separation, with some even open to joining the United States as its 51st state. The movement stems from grievances over Ottawa's control of resources, taxation, and policies seen as hostile to Alberta's interests, including federal energy regulations. While Smith claims secession is not the primary goal, she vows to honor the will of Albertans if the referendum passes. Meanwhile, other provinces like British Columbia express concern over potential disruptions to interprovincial trade and national unity if Alberta were to separate.