Provincial resentment of Ottawa may be growing

Significance

The campaign to lead the UCP is likely to bring out a rising sense of frustration with the Liberal government in Ottawa. Quebec is also exhibiting a renewed sense of nationalism that is being shaped by opposition to the policies of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.

Impacts

• The race in Alberta may influence the contest to lead the federal Conservative Party, which is taking place simultaneously.
• A strong response from Ottawa to Alberta’s proposed Sovereignty Act could encourage interest in separatism elsewhere.
• Quebec’s new language legislation will lead to a brain drain of anglophone and immigrant talent from the province.