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The premiers of Alberta and Saskatchewan have both rejected a call by billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk for the two Prairie provinces to separate from Canada. Musk made the suggestion on his social media platform X, arguing that Quebec, Alberta, and Saskatchewan would all be better off as independent entities.
Premiers Push Back on Musk’s Separation Call
Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe responded directly and briefly on social media with a single word: “No.” However, Moe has previously acknowledged that he would not block a public vote on separation if Saskatchewan residents formally petitioned for one. He has also described himself as a committed Canadian.
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Alberta Premier Danielle Smith was equally firm in her rejection. Smith stated that she strongly disagrees with Musk’s position. She also confirmed she plans to vote to remain in Canada in an upcoming provincial referendum scheduled for October 19.
That vote will ask Albertans whether the province should stay in Canada or whether a second binding referendum on separation should take place. The result carries significant political weight for the future of the province’s relationship with the federal government.
Musk’s Personal Ties to Canada
Despite his public profile as a prominent American tech figure, Musk holds Canadian citizenship. He was born in South Africa but has lived in several parts of Canada at different points in his life.
His mother grew up in Saskatchewan, and Musk spent time as a teenager working on a family farm in the province. He later moved to Vancouver before enrolling at Queen’s University in Ontario, where he also met his first wife.
Musk previously served as an adviser to U.S. President Donald Trump. His comments about Prairie separation drew immediate attention given his high public profile and his personal history in Canada.
Separation Debate Remains a Sensitive Issue
The question of Western Canadian separation is not new, but it has gained renewed attention in recent years. Alberta in particular has seen growing political tension with the federal government over issues including energy policy and equalization payments.
The October 19 referendum will give Albertans a direct say on the province’s future within Confederation. Both Smith and Moe appear determined to keep their provinces within Canada, even as they push back against federal policies they view as harmful to the West.
For now, both premiers have made their positions clear. Musk’s suggestion found no support from the very leaders of the provinces he named.
