Inside the Alberta Republicans’ Town Hall: A Personal Look at a Bold Push for Sovereignty

By Mindi Soren

I’ve attended many political events over the years, but none quite like the Alberta Republicans’ “Independence Town Hall” held on May 24, 2025, at the Red Deer Resort & Casino. As someone from Edmonton who has grown increasingly interested in Alberta's sovereignty movement—not necessarily as a firm believer, but as a curious observer—I wanted to witness firsthand the mood, the arguments, and the people behind this rapidly growing political force.

What I found was a politically charged gathering that was part campaign rally, part classroom, and part community therapy session—a mix of passion, policy, and frustration. And while the event remained largely civil, there were undercurrents of tension and a few minor disruptions that spoke volumes about the emotional weight of the sovereignty debate.

A High-Energy Setting with Strong Symbolism

The event was held at the Red Deer Resort & Casino Conference Centre, a location that lent both formality and accessibility. From the moment I walked in, the atmosphere was unmistakably energized. Around 400 to 500 people packed into the hall. There were banners declaring “Alberta First” and “Time for Change,” and notably, the room was adorned with Alberta flags—dozens of them—but not a single Canadian flag in sight.

That visual alone was telling. The message was clear: this wasn't a movement looking for reform within Confederation—this was a community exploring a full political divorce from Canada.

I noticed many attendees came in groups—families, friends, and regional delegates—some wearing Alberta-themed gear and even a few waving miniature provincial flags. Several wore “AR” pins (for Alberta Republicans) or t-shirts with slogans such as “Unite the West” and “Alberta is Not a Colony.”

There was a cash bar set up just outside the hall, and yes—alcohol was available. Most people were responsible, sipping a beer or a glass of wine between sessions. A few had clearly started their night early, which led to some louder-than-necessary commentary during the Q&A session. Staff and volunteers kept a careful eye, and thankfully, things remained under control.

Speakers: Frustration Meets Vision

The speaker line-up was both strategic and emotionally compelling. First up was Cameron Davies, leader of the Alberta Republicans, who took the stage to roaring applause. He laid out the party’s goals with striking clarity:

A binding referendum on Alberta independence from Canada

A non-binding referendum on whether to explore joining the United States

A move toward constitutional reform based on U.S.-style governance

Full control over natural resources and taxation

Davies emphasized what he called “federal betrayal,” particularly around energy policies, firearm regulations, and economic redistribution. “Ottawa doesn’t listen, and it doesn’t care. It’s time we stop asking for scraps,” he said, to thunderous applause.

Professor Bruce Hardy provided a more academic breakdown of how independence could be pursued under Canadian and international law. He acknowledged that legal hurdles were significant but not insurmountable if backed by a strong mandate.

Rachel Parker, the host of a conservative online show, focused on cultural alienation. “We don’t share the same values as downtown Toronto or Montreal,” she said. “We believe in hard work, faith, independence—not government handouts and cancel culture.”

Historian Michael Wagner delivered a compelling overview of Alberta’s long history of separatist sentiment, drawing comparisons to past prairie populist movements and referencing the Buffalo Declaration and the Reform Party’s early roots.

Tension, Engagement, and One Disruption

The audience was highly engaged. Dozens lined up during the open mic segment to ask questions or make statements. While many asked thoughtful questions about logistics, trade, defense, and taxation, one man—clearly intoxicated—attempted to hijack the mic to shout obscenities about federal immigration policies.

Security calmly escorted him out without incident, and the program resumed quickly. Later, an organizer acknowledged the outburst and encouraged attendees to “represent the movement with dignity.”

Despite that disruption, the overall tone remained respectful, though not without intensity. It was clear that many attendees felt a deep sense of injustice and alienation from the Canadian political system. For them, this wasn’t just about economics—it was about identity, belonging, and a desire to forge a future on their own terms.

What I Took Away as an Edmontonian

From where I stood, this town hall felt like more than just political theater—it was a moment of collective reckoning. For years, Alberta has simmered with resentment over perceived federal indifference. But this event made it clear that those feelings are now transforming into concrete plans, organization, and political momentum.

It’s not that everyone in the room agreed on every detail. Some wanted full independence. Others favoured enhanced autonomy within Canada. A few floated the idea of joining the United States—a controversial suggestion that still sparked a lot of discussion. But what united them was a shared belief that the current system is broken—and that waiting for change from Ottawa is a fool’s errand.

Will Alberta actually separate? That remains to be seen. But after attending this event, I’m convinced of one thing: the sovereignty movement is no longer fringe. It’s a rising tide—and politicians in both Edmonton and Ottawa would be wise to take notice.

Mindi Soren is a freelance journalist and writer for Veritas Expositae

You can reach her at mindi.soren@veritasexpositae.com