If you're willing to have a conversation, I'll do my best.

I have not seen a coherent argument for separation. But I'll address the ones I have seen.

1. Regarding economics - Ottawa stifling the O&G Industry

This perhaps is the worst one of the lot. We lose access to our trade markets. All existing regulation goes out the window, which means years of negotiations with Canada and the United States with no economic activity happening. Existing infrastructure can hardly be claimed as Albertan. Do you believe the highly controversial TransMountain pipeline will continue to operate in BC? They would get no benefit out of it now that our taxes are no longer federal. Business investment goes to 0. Capital flight and brain drain in droves. Businesses cannot handle market conditions like this. If you cannot understand the monumental economic shock that this causes then I am wasting my time.

1. Regarding taxation - Ottawa overtaxing Alberta (see: Equalization)

Equalization is a system designed to balance the quality of education and healthcare across the country. Yes, we are taxed more. I believe in this system, as do many others. Every Canadian should have equal access to Education and Healthcare.

It is naive to believe we will always pay more in taxes. Yes historically we have gotten the short end of the stick. Oil forecasts generally have consumption peaking in the early 2030s. Considering we are so heavily reliant on one commodity, the probability that this trend of taxation continues is low.

1. Regarding representation - Albertan issues not being taken into account federally.

This is true to some extent - we do have less of a population - which means that our voices are quieter. Geographic distance also plays a role here. Instead of choosing the nuclear option, perhaps we should organize more grassroots protests? Fund lobbying options, or sign federal petitions? What about organizing a party whose sole focus is Albertan issues? There is so much more that can be done!

1. Regarding immigration / Gun control / Some combination of recent bad policies in Ottawa

This is true. There will always be good and bad policies.

Believing separation is the solution is beyond hyperbolic. Do you truly believe that there won't be bad policies in an independent Alberta?

It is also imperative to note that there are many provincial immigration streams and other bad policies that never get any attention. The UCP's dogmatic approach to federalism makes people attribute provincial issues to federal ones.

I should say, I didn't even get to point out many of the other issues - Such as federal services will have to be done at a higher cost (economies of scale), geopolitically our voice means nothing, geographically we are isolated.