In a remarkable diplomatic intervention, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has openly sympathized with separatist sentiments in Alberta, describing the western Canadian province as a “natural partner for the United States” during an interview with right-wing commentator Jack Posobiec on Thursday.
The comments emerge amidst significantly strained relations between the two neighboring nations and coincide with an active signature collection campaign in Alberta seeking an independence referendum. Bessent specifically criticized Canadian energy policies, noting that “Alberta has a wealth of natural resources, but they won’t let them build a pipeline to the Pacific,” while praising Albertans as “very independent people.”
Canadian Finance Minister Francois-Philippe Champagne delivered a sharp rebuke on Friday, stating he would tell Bessent “thanks but no thanks, we will do our own things.” Champagne highlighted Canada’s capability to develop its natural resources domestically and referenced a recently signed agreement between Prime Minister Mark Carney and Alberta that facilitates an oil pipeline to the Pacific coast—a long-sought project facing substantial implementation challenges.
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith’s office issued a measured response, expressing support for pipeline expansion “west, east, north, and south” while maintaining collaboration with US partners. However, the statement emphasized that “the overwhelming majority of Albertans are not interested in becoming a US state.” This position is supported by recent polling data and a 430,000-signature petition from late last year advocating for a united Canada.
Referendum organizer Mitch Sylvestre clarified to CBC that his movement seeks independence from Canada rather than annexation by the United States, though he acknowledged the obvious energy trading relationship between Alberta and the US. Some separatist organizers have reportedly traveled to Washington for meetings with Trump administration officials.
The diplomatic friction extends beyond Alberta, with US-Canada trade negotiations currently suspended. Tensions escalated following Prime Minister Carney’s speech at the World Economic Forum in Davos, where he criticized “great powers” for weaponizing economic influence. President Trump responded pointedly: “Canada lives because of the United States. Remember that, Mark, the next time you make your statements.” Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick further accused Canada of “arrogance” and characterized Carney’s stance as domestically-motivated anti-Americanism.