Mark Carney makes closing argument to Alberta against path to independence from Canada: outsiders ‘are working to break us so they can own us. Never’

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney made a final plea to Albertans considering independence, warning that a referendum is a precarious gamble during a period of escalating threats to Canada's sovereignty. With U.S. President Donald Trump escalating a trade war and hinting at turning Canada into the 51st state, Carney cautioned that the referendum is being done at "the worst possible time" and urged Albertans to not take the outcome for granted.

"Don’t let anyone tell you this is already decided. Turnout will determine the outcome," Carney told a pro-Canada rally in Edmonton, where he was raised. "This is not a game. This is not poker. A vote against Canada is a dangerous bluff that will lead to years of deep uncertainty and lost opportunities for Albertans and Canadians."

Monday's vote is not a direct measure on independence. Alberta, home to most of Canada's oil reserves, will decide whether to remain a province or initiate the legal process toward a future referendum on separation. Carney's closing appeal came after two days of campaigning against secession in the province. Earlier Friday, Carney joined Alberta's conservative premier Danielle Smith in showing unity against independence.

Smith praised Carney for improving relationships with a province that frequently clashed with his predecessor over carbon taxes and energy policies. However, some Albertans are critical of the referendum being called, with independence supporters waving flags and holding signs outside the Edmonton rally venue.