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Alberta Separation Referendum Shakes Canadian Politics

  Alberta — the oil-rich western province now at the heart of a historic political showdown.  Canada is facing one of its most significant constitutional crossroads in decades. The Alberta separation movement, long dismissed by many as fringe politics, has reached a formal milestone that is now forcing the entire country — and every Canadian's wallet — to pay close attention. 🗳️ The Signatures Are In — And They Exceeded the Target On May 4, 2026, the separatist group Stay Free Alberta delivered nearly 302,000 signed petitions to Elections Alberta in Edmonton — well above the 178,000 required to trigger a provincial referendum. Supporters carrying boxes of signatures were met with cheers from over 300 flag-waving Albertans gathered outside. The group's leader, Mitch Sylvestre, described the submission as a democratic mandate that the provincial government must respect. The petition asks Albertans: "Do you agree that the Province of Alberta shall become a sovereign countr...

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Black Friday shoppers pulling back on spending

 

 According to a survey by the National Retail Federation, Black Friday sales in the U.S. dropped by 28% compared to 2019, as shoppers avoided crowded stores and opted for online shopping instead.

Here ate the main reasons cited for this trend:

  • Online shopping surge: Online sales on Black Friday reached a record $9 billion, up 21.6% from last year, according to Adobe Analytics. Cyber Monday is expected to be the biggest online shopping day in U.S. history, with sales projected to reach $10.8 billion.
  • Pandemic impact: The coronavirus pandemic has changed consumer behavior and preferences, as people seek convenience, safety, and value. Many retailers have extended their sales period and offered curbside pickup or free delivery options to attract customers.
  • Holiday season outlook: Despite the lower turnout on Black Friday, the NRF predicts that overall holiday sales will increase by 3.6% to 5.2% over 2019, reaching between $755.3 billion and $766.7 billion. However, the uncertainty around the pandemic and the economy could affect consumer confidence and spending.

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