MP calls reports of Republicans aiding Alberta separatists 'concerning'
Conservative MP Dane Lloyd says the province's resources cannot be promised to a foreign government, as Albertans prepare to vote on a separation referendum question.
Why it matters
The report raises questions about foreign involvement in Alberta's political future ahead of a referendum vote on separation.
Conservative MP Dane Lloyd, who leads his party's effort to persuade Albertans to remain in Canada, says he is troubled by reports that separatists travelled to Washington offering fresh water and oil in exchange for American support. Lloyd said no one has the authority to give away Albertan resources and that he would not accept any of the province's revenue going to a foreign government.
The Globe and Mail reported over the weekend that Republican political operatives visited Alberta earlier this year to assist the separatist movement. Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangaree declined to comment directly on the reporting, referring questions to CSIS.
Albertans are set to vote Oct. 19 on whether to hold a binding referendum on legal separation from Canada. Premier Danielle Smith has said she will vote against separation but has faced criticism for not doing more to dampen separatist sentiment in the province.
Compiled by the Alberta Daily Desk — an AI-written summary of reporting from the credited sources below, produced and reviewed under our editorial policy.