Alberta separatists in Canada view Trump as an ally.

According to reports, in most parts of Canada, provocative remarks by US President Trump such as turning Canada into the 51st state of the US are very unpopular. But in conservative and oil-rich Alberta province, Trump is seen as bringing an opportunity. Alberta province is preparing to hold a referendum later this year to secede from Canada, and supporters of the independence movement believe that Trump's disruptive energy can help their cause. Alberta separatists hope to shake up Canada's liberal politics and heavily promote oil production. They view Trump as a powerful ally and believe that he will not hinder their independence, although the province becoming a US state is unlikely. For Canada, Alberta's independence is a distant but chilling prospect. This western province is a resource-rich province, with most of Canada's oil. Only Saudi Arabia and Venezuela have more oil reserves than Alberta. Officials of the Trump administration have welcomed visits from Alberta's independence leaders to Washington to discuss energy and trade issues. Trump allies like Stephen Bannon have expressed support for Alberta's independence remarks, and Finance Minister Scott Benett recently affirmed the movement, saying, "People want sovereignty."