Carney fights to keep Canada united as Albertans consider path to independence

Voters in Alberta, Canada's oil-rich province, are deciding on Monday whether to begin a process that could lead to independence from Canada. The vote is not a direct referendum on independence but rather a decision on whether to start the legal process toward potential separation. Alberta, home to most of Canada's proven oil reserves, is a conservative stronghold with deep resentment toward Ottawa, but historically, this has not translated into widespread support for independence.

Prime Minister Mark Carney urged Albertans to vote for unity, emphasizing that the vote is crucial for Canada's future. The referendum comes amid heightened nationalism in Alberta due to President Donald Trump's trade war and threats to claim Canada as the 51st U.S. state.

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