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US official endorses Alberta as key ally
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent described Alberta as a "natural partner" for the United States during a right-wing media interview on Thursday, highlighting the province's resource wealth and independent spirit.
Bessent criticized Canada's resistance to pipelines, stating, "Alberta has a wealth of natural resources, but they won't let them build a pipeline to the Pacific. I think we should let them come down into the US."
Separatist referendum gains momentum
A group in Alberta is collecting signatures to trigger an independence referendum, requiring 178,000 names-10% of eligible voters-by May. While polls show most Albertans prefer remaining in Canada, the movement has sparked national debate.
Bessent acknowledged rumors of a potential referendum, telling host Jack Posobiec, "There's a rumor that they may have a referendum on whether they want to stay in Canada or not."
Ottawa rejects US overtures
Canadian Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne dismissed Bessent's remarks on Friday, stating, "Thanks but no thanks, we will do our own things." He emphasized Canada's ability to develop its resources independently, citing a recent pipeline deal between Prime Minister Mark Carney and Alberta.
"Canadians are able to develop our natural resources at home."
François-Philippe Champagne, Canadian Finance Minister
Alberta's mixed signals
Premier Danielle Smith's office reiterated Alberta's support for pipelines in all directions, including to the US, but clarified that most Albertans oppose joining America. "The premier believes the overwhelming majority of Albertans are not interested in becoming a US state," a spokesperson told the BBC.
Mitch Sylvestre, leader of the referendum petition, told CBC that his movement seeks independence, not US annexation. However, some separatist organizers have reportedly met with Trump administration officials in Washington.
US-Canada tensions escalate
The comments come amid strained relations between the two nations. President Donald Trump recently rebuked Carney for criticizing global economic policies at the World Economic Forum, while US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick accused Canada of arrogance.
Despite trade talks stalling, Alberta's energy sector remains a focal point, with both countries eyeing pipeline expansions to US markets.
