**Content:** WASHINGTON, D.C. — Cameron Davies, leader of the Republican Party of Alberta (RPA), is actively seeking support from American conservatives as he visits the United States this week. His trip includes a stay at former President Donald Trump’s Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida, where he aims to promote the idea of an independent Alberta Republic.

Davies has recently met with undersecretary-level officials at the White House and engaged with prominent media figures, including Megyn Kelly and Tucker Carlson, during his visit to New York. He also connected with potential congressional candidates in Pennsylvania, a key swing state for the upcoming elections.

While at Mar-a-Lago, Davies plans to convey his message that an independent Alberta would be advantageous not only for Albertans but also for the United States, enhancing economic ties and North American security. He did not confirm whether he would meet with Trump, stating, "If the opportunity arises, I will have a productive conversation."

The RPA, the only political party advocating for Alberta's independence, raises questions about transparency and foreign influence in its dealings with U.S. officials. In August, Davies had expressed that it would be inappropriate for him to engage with the White House before a referendum on independence. However, he now argues that the current Alberta government shows no intention of holding such a vote, prompting him to seek discussions to pressure the United Conservative Party (UCP) to consider the public's desire for independence.

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith’s office has emphasized the legal process for initiating referendums, stating that citizens should follow the proper channels to express their support for independence. Sam Blackett, Smith's press secretary, noted that if there is sufficient backing for independence, it should be pursued through established legal avenues.

The King’s Bench of Alberta is set to review the APP’s proposed referendum question this month, which asks if Alberta should become a sovereign country. The court will determine if this question violates constitutional or treaty rights. Davies is skeptical about the court's approval, citing UCP legislation that he believes undermines the referendum process.

Adrienne Davidson, a political science professor, highlighted the constitutional implications of an independence referendum, particularly regarding Indigenous nations and treaty rights. She also mentioned a counter-referendum from the Forever Canadian movement, which has gained traction and may be presented to voters before any independence vote.

Thomas Lukaszuk, head of the Forever Canadian campaign, advocates for a legislative approach to affirm Alberta's place within Canada rather than pursuing a referendum. He believes that a vote in favor of remaining in Canada would resolve the matter.

Davies, a dual citizen of Canada and the U.S. and a former Marine, claims to have established contacts within the Trump administration. He described his recent meetings in Washington as productive, discussing the potential for an Alberta Republic to function as an energy superpower and partner with the U.S. on trade and national security.

Despite the enthusiasm surrounding these discussions, experts caution that seeking American influence in Alberta's political landscape could backfire. Davidson warned that soliciting foreign support for internal policy issues poses risks, while Tronnes expressed concern that Davies's approach might alienate Albertans.

Davies maintains that no financial transactions have occurred and that discussions about U.S. support for Alberta's independence are premature. He emphasized the importance of exploring economic partnerships and security concerns that an independent Alberta could address.

As the situation unfolds, the RPA's strategy of courting American conservatives may face scrutiny, with some experts predicting it could lead to unintended consequences for the independence movement in Alberta.