Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre has selected Alberta MP Dane Lloyd to lead the party’s efforts for the upcoming Alberta referendum on separation. Lloyd, a lifelong Albertan who has represented the Parkland riding since 2017, brings military experience from his time as a reservist in the Canadian Armed Forces, which Poilievre believes will be valuable for his new role.
In a letter to Lloyd, Poilievre acknowledged the legitimate concerns and grievances of Albertans and emphasized the importance of listening to them rather than scolding. Poilievre, who advocates for Alberta to remain part of Canada, highlighted the benefits of unity, such as more pipelines, affordable housing, lower taxes, enhanced security, strengthened borders, and increased freedom that would benefit workers and families across the country.
Lloyd expressed his honor in contributing to the referendum discussions, affirming his strong belief in a united Canada through a social media post. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Mark Carney appointed Morgan Breitkreutz as the government’s senior adviser on Alberta to manage the federal response to the referendum and oversee critical projects like the proposed West Coast pipeline.
Separation advocate Mitch Sylvestre noted the expected alignment of the Conservatives with the remain side, citing their interest in retaining Alberta within Canada, given the significant number of Conservative-held seats in the province. Evan Menzies, a former United Conservative Party member, praised Lloyd’s appointment, describing him as a principled individual dedicated to community service.
However, some experts caution against Poilievre’s strategy of emphasizing discontent with Ottawa, warning that it could inadvertently fuel separatist sentiments among voters. The referendum scheduled for October will pose ten questions to Albertans, with one focusing on whether the province should remain part of Confederation or pursue a legal referendum on separation. Other questions will address immigration and constitutional matters, allowing Albertans to voice their opinions on October 19.