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- calendar_today October 26, 2026
Danielle Smith Addresses Alberta Separatism Within UCP
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith has stated that separatism is no longer a divisive issue within the United Conservative Party (UCP), emphasizing that she does not require support from separatists to maintain leadership or win re-election. In a recent interview with CBC Radio’s West of Centre, Smith detailed her party’s position following a provincial referendum, asserting the party’s unity and the importance of respecting the democratic will of Albertans.
Referendum Affirms Majority Support for Remaining in Canada
Smith highlighted the results of a recent referendum in Alberta, in which 75 percent of voters opted to remain part of Canada. She explained that this outcome demonstrates Albertans’ desire to stay in the country, and declared that the question of separatism has been resolved within the party. Smith told UCP members they must support the referendum’s outcome or consider leaving the party.
“If you're going to be in a political party and show faithfully that you're going to represent the people, then you have to listen to the message they gave you,” Smith said, reiterating that the UCP’s position aligns with the majority view.
Approach to Party Unity and Internal Dissent
Despite claims by some prominent separatists, such as Mitch Sylvestre—the president of a UCP constituency association—that separatists were key in Smith’s rise to leadership, Smith refuted the notion that this group is central to her base of support. She clarified that her campaign focused on concerns such as the province’s response to COVID-19, classroom diversity initiatives, and parental involvement in education, rather than separatist policies.
Regarding internal party discipline, Smith made it clear that party candidates and board members are expected to adhere to the outcome of the referendum. “If you don’t want to agree to follow the will of the people, you don’t have to be a candidate for us,” she stated. Individuals unwilling to commit to this stance, Smith suggested, are free to pursue advocacy outside the party or seek involvement with other political organizations.
Legislative Priorities and Voting Policy
Smith identified voting-related issues—specifically the requirement for citizenship in order to vote—as a legislative priority following the referendum. She noted strong public support for ensuring only Canadian citizens can participate in provincial elections and suggested that related enabling legislation is likely to be introduced ahead of the next provincial election, scheduled for October. The premier highlighted new administrative processes, such as a citizenship marker on driver’s licences, as steps toward streamlining voter identification.
Other policy areas connected to immigration, including waiting periods for temporary workers and program fees, are expected to be addressed more slowly. Smith indicated a need to focus on matching newcomers to available jobs, potentially reducing pressure on public services like health care and education by encouraging long-term, taxpaying residents.
Response to MLA Jason Stephan’s Decision and Leadership Outlook
Smith addressed UCP MLA Jason Stephan’s recent announcement that he will not seek re-election. She confirmed that this was a personal decision, not influenced by party leadership or the outcome of the referendum, as Stephan had informed her a year prior of his uncertainty about running again.
When asked if the party could maintain unity and win elections without separatist support, Smith dismissed the notion that separatists were her primary backers. “That’s not who was supporting me,” she said, crediting her political success to voters motivated by other policy issues and a shared desire for autonomy within Canada—not separation.
A Commitment to Democracy and Party Values
Smith concluded by emphasizing the importance of respecting democratic outcomes and ensuring that UCP representatives reflect the views of the majority. She promoted her vision of advocating for Alberta’s autonomy within the Canadian federation rather than pursuing constitutional changes or separation.
Source: cbc.ca.
