Alberta votes on first step toward Canadian independence

Albertans head to the polls Monday on whether to begin legal proceedings toward a binding referendum on separating from Canada.

• Alberta voters decide Monday whether to begin legal proceedings toward a binding independence referendum.
• Separatists rallied in Edmonton, where leader Jeffrey Rath said Carney wanted Canada to "join Europe" after damaging ties with the US.
• Premier Danielle Smith pledged to launch a binding separation process if a majority backs independence.
• US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said Alberta would be a "natural partner" for the United States if it became independent.