Cameron Davies, the leader of the Republican Party of Alberta, recently engaged in a series of high-profile meetings in the United States, including a visit to Mar-a-Lago in Florida. His trip included discussions with prominent American conservatives, such as former North Carolina representative Madison Cawthorn and Trump administration official Kari Lake. Davies aims to garner support for Alberta's potential independence from Canada, stating that he hopes for immediate international recognition from the United States if Albertans choose to become independent.
Davies has been vocal about the benefits of a free trade agreement between an independent Alberta and the U.S., emphasizing that it could be tariff-free. He believes that many U.S. Republicans are unaware of the independence movement's progress and its implications for U.S. energy security and foreign policy. "There’s some knowledge among U.S. Republicans that there’s an independence movement, but there isn’t a lot of understanding as far as how far along it is and what that actually means for the United States’ energy security, foreign policy, and future trading partners," he explained.
However, Davies's outreach has sparked debate back home. Critics argue that his efforts may be more about seeking attention than fostering genuine support. Jeffrey Rath, co-founder of the Alberta Prosperity Project, which is currently involved in a court case regarding a referendum on Alberta's sovereignty, described Davies as being on the fringe of the independence movement. Rath noted that while there is significant support for independence within the United Conservative Party, Davies's Republican Party of Alberta represents a smaller faction.
Political science expert Adrienne Davidson suggested that Davies's push for American support may stem from a decline in domestic enthusiasm for the separatist movement. She noted that Premier Danielle Smith's recent initiatives have overshadowed the independence discussions. "He’s trying to reignite or inflame or create some more momentum behind this movement," Davidson said.
Despite the criticism, Davies remains steadfast in his approach. He dismissed concerns about foreign interference, arguing that discussions between Alberta Republicans and American Republicans are legitimate. "Alberta Republicans having conversations with American Republicans is somehow beyond the pale, which is just laughable to me," he stated. He plans to continue advocating for Alberta's independence at upcoming events, including America Fest in Phoenix, Arizona.
The legal landscape surrounding Alberta's independence is also evolving. The Court of King’s Bench of Alberta is set to review the constitutionality of the Alberta Prosperity Project's referendum question. Rath expressed optimism about the court's decision, anticipating a ruling before the judicial Christmas break. He emphasized the importance of a clear and standalone referendum question, separate from other political issues.
As the debate continues, Rath is confident that a referendum on Alberta's independence will take place by 2026. "We’re not going to be denied," he asserted, highlighting the movement's substantial support among Albertans. The upcoming discussions at the United Conservative Party's annual general meeting are expected to reveal deeper divisions within the party regarding the independence issue.

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