The premiers of Alberta and Saskatchewan have dismissed a proposal from Elon Musk, one of the wealthiest individuals globally, suggesting that the two provinces should separate from Canada. Musk, a tech billionaire and former advisor to U.S. President Donald Trump, shared his views on Twitter, now rebranded as X. He mentioned that Quebec, Alberta, and Saskatchewan could benefit from independence, in response to remarks by Quebec premier-designate Paul St-Pierre Plamondon regarding Quebec’s potential future independence.
Alberta Premier Scott Moe succinctly responded to Musk’s comments with a “No” on his social media platform. Moe did not provide further elaboration beyond his post, and he was unavailable for interviews on the matter.
Both Alberta Premier Danielle Smith and Prime Minister Mark Carney expressed disagreement with Musk’s perspective. Carney emphasized that the future of Canada will be determined by Canadians and their priorities, emphasizing the importance of a strong, independent, and prosperous nation free from external interference.
In the upcoming provincial referendum on October 19, Albertans will decide whether to remain part of Canada or hold a second binding referendum on separation. Smith intends to vote for Alberta to stay within Canada. Premier Moe believes in Saskatchewan’s strength within a united Canada but has not ruled out a plebiscite if there is enough public support for a referendum. Moe has maintained a positive relationship with Prime Minister Carney compared to his predecessor, Justin Trudeau.
In Quebec, the Parti Québécois, a sovereigntist party, has secured enough seats to form a minority government in the recent provincial election. Premier-designate Paul St-Pierre Plamondon has pledged to organize a referendum on Quebec’s future.
