(Updated) Eby calls reported meeting between Alberta separatists and U.S. officials 'treason'

Premier of British Columbia David Eby takes questions after meeting with Canadian premiers at a Council of the Federation meeting in Ottawa on Wednesday, Jan. 28, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Justin TangPremier of British Columbia David Eby takes questions after meeting with Canadian premiers at a Council of the Federation meeting in Ottawa on Wednesday, Jan. 28, 2026. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Justin TangA reported meeting between individuals in the Alberta separatist movement and White House officials amounts to "treason," British Columbia Premier David Eby said Thursday in Ottawa. Rath called Eby "a fool" and claimed the premier was upset because he and other leaders of the Alberta separatist movement had greater access to U.S. officials. The Alberta independence movement is collecting signatures in an attempt to initiate a referendum on whether Alberta should separate from Canada.