A poll commissioned by independent journalist Rachel Parker shows 36% of Albertans would support Alberta independence and 20% would support Alberta becoming a US state or territory.
President Donald Trump first floated the idea of Canada becoming the 51st state back in November, in remarks to then Prime Minister Justin Trudeau that were first perceived as a joke.
While Canadian leaders across the board pushed back against the notion, especially as Trump has become increasingly persistent, the idea apparently sits well among a fair portion of Americans.
Alberta independence from Canada is not a new idea — the term “Wexit” has been thrown around for many years, but there has been little appetite for Albertans to go through with it.
However, as Ottawa politicians continue to undermine Alberta’s resources by imposing an emissions cap while taking $3 billion annually in equalization payments, and also since Trump’s remarks, the idea has become more popular.
A Calgary-based lawyer earlier this month told the Western Standard he is leading a delegation to meet with officials in Washington to gauge support from the Americans on either Alberta sovereignty, or the possibility of the province becoming an American state or territory.
The poll, facilitated by Mainstreet Research, asked, “Do you support or oppose the idea of an independent Alberta, either on its own or with other provinces, separate from Canada?”
A total of 44% strongly oppose, 4% somewhat oppose, 7% don’t know, 8% neither support or oppose, 11% somewhat support and 26% strongly support.
When the pollster broke down the data based on demographics, it was found those in rural Alberta — not in Calgary or Edmonton — support the idea, as do younger people who aren’t yet worried about their pensions.
A second question asked, “Would you support or oppose joining the US as the 51st state?”
The sentiment of Albertans when it comes to joining the US is substantially clearer: A total of 67% strongly oppose, 3% somewhat oppose, 3% don’t know, 7% neither support or oppose, 9% somewhat support and 11% strongly support.
The final question asked, “If a referendum were held today to decide on separation from Canada, how would you vote?”
Of the respondents, 56% said they would remain, 25% would leave and 19% said they don’t know.
