There was a nationwide survey in Canada a few years back that examined the issue of separatism, and the results were broken down by province. The results were very interesting:
1. The province of Quebec was most amenable to seceding from Canada and joining the U.S.
2. The province of Alberta was very receptive to the idea of seceding from Canada, but was the least receptive of all the provinces to the idea of joining the U.S.
Something you have to understand is this: Albertans are definitely independent-minded and conservative, and they view the United States as a liberal country that is just too similar to Eastern Canada for their liking.
After eight years of Pee Wee Clinton and four years of "compassionate" conservatism . . . I can see why they would think that. But times are changing down here. Conservatives are learning that you can't compromise with liberals. Liberals have only one policy . . . to win at all costs, regardless of the tactics required and regardless of how winning might betray what they consider to be their "core" principles. Liberals have no principle. They'll lie, cheat, or steal to get reelected. Some of us are realizing some Republicans are the same way . . . and we plan on making changes.
But . . . with the choices before us . . . we have no REAL choice this election cycle. The War on Terror is too important. That's what the rest of the world doesn't understand. EVERY American has had a bullseye painted on our backs by terrorists the world over. We can either fight in their backyards or allow them to piss in our hometown sandboxes. We've decided to take the fight to them.
Thus . . . we have to put our dissatisfaction with some policies on hold for now. But don't think for a second we're happy with our "elected" officials. The internet is the great equilizer . . . and we'll weed out the liberals and compassionates in due time.