Chris Scott was behind the wheel of his 2001 Monaco Dynasty motorhome last week, navigating the rural highways of southern Alberta. As the vehicle rumbled along, showing signs of wear with creaking sounds and worn furniture, Scott drew a parallel to the state of Alberta, emphasizing the importance of addressing issues promptly rather than allowing them to escalate.
A prominent figure in the community, Scott, who rose to fame during the COVID-19 pandemic for his restaurant business, embarked on a summer journey advocating for Alberta’s independence. Traveling with a group sharing the same sentiment, he engaged in discussions with residents about the prospect of Alberta becoming a sovereign nation.
Recently, CBC News joined the “Let’s Talk Alberta” bus for a day, interviewing passengers to understand their motivations as Albertans prepare to vote in an upcoming referendum. Various federalist and separatist groups have been active this summer, engaging with voters and organizing events to mobilize support for the referendum, which is fast approaching.
During a tour through southern Alberta, Scott, accompanied by passengers like Jasper Smit and Tanya Clemens, engaged in conversations about independence and distributed lawn signs to raise awareness. The bus, adorned with “Let’s Talk Alberta” decals and scenic views of the province, served as a platform for discussing key issues facing Albertans.
Scott’s experiences during the pandemic, including legal challenges related to public health restrictions, have fueled his determination to stand up for what he believes in. As the bus journeyed through towns, it attracted supporters who resonated with Scott’s message, emphasizing the need for government responsiveness to the desires of Albertans.
The bus tour encountered a heated moment in Strathmore when town officials attempted to intervene, leading to a confrontation that drew attention from separatist influencers. Despite initial tensions, the group was allowed to continue expressing their views, highlighting the importance of peaceful democratic processes.
As the tour progressed, making stops in various towns and cities, the Let’s Talk Alberta crew engaged with diverse communities, aiming to broaden support for independence beyond rural areas. With the referendum drawing closer, the group recognized the need to gain traction in urban centers to bolster their campaign for Alberta’s independence.