Dozens of Liberal MPs expected at Calgary Stampede amid Alberta referendum

Prime Minister Mark Carney’s Liberal caucus is expected to show up at the Calgary Stampede in larger numbers than usual, with dozens of MPs planning to attend as Alberta prepares for a referendum later this year. Calgary Confederation MP Corey Hogan said he and other Alberta Liberal MPs have spent months encouraging colleagues to come to the annual event, which begins on July 3. He said 37 MPs are already expected, and the total could rise to 45. The attendance push comes as federal and provincial politics in Alberta are drawing more attention, including talks over a pipeline agreement and an Alberta government referendum set for Oct. 19. Several cabinet ministers, including Marc Miller and Sean Fraser, are confirmed to attend, while other ministers have not finalized plans. The Prime Minister’s Office also recently hired a senior adviser focused on Alberta, saying the region has become a higher priority because of major projects and energyrelated discussions.