On May 3, a rally in support of the province's secession took place outside the Alberta Legislative Assembly in Edmonton. Hundreds of participants carried Alberta flags, and some even carried American flags.

One of the speakers, Catherine Speck, admitted that she used to be a patriot, wore a maple leaf abroad and studied French in Quebec. Now, she said, she is disappointed: "We have no chance of being heard in this country. We will never be represented in government."

The rally was prompted by the recent re-election of the Liberals and the Danielle Smith government's bill simplifying referendums. Although Smith said she does not predict possible questions for the vote, the law eases the path to a plebiscite on independence.

Young people are also unhappy. "If Pierre Poilievre had won, there would still be hope. "This is a fourth term for the Liberals, and it will ruin the country," said 17-year-old participant Hannah Henze.

Some participants expressed dissatisfaction with Ottawa's ignoring Alberta's energy sector while caring about auto jobs.

At the same time, Indigenous peoples reminded that secession would violate treaties with First Nations. In response, Premier Smith said she fully respects treaty rights and sees Alberta's future as sovereign, but part of a united Canada.