Alberta premier to chair sovereignty panel, put proposals to 2026 referendum
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith has announced plans to chair a panel aimed at brainstorming strategies to protect the province from what she perceives as economic threats from the federal Liberal government. In a video address on Monday, Smith revealed that Albertans will have the opportunity to vote on the most popular proposals discussed at the “Alberta Next” panel’s in-person and virtual meetings during a 2026 referendum.
Smith expressed frustration with what she sees as attacks on the province by the federal government, stating, “The world looks at us like we’ve lost our minds.” She highlighted the abundant natural resources in Alberta and criticized the province for being overly reliant on a single customer to the south and enabling pollution from other countries.
The premier clarified that she does not support Alberta separating from Canada but emphasized that if citizens successfully petition for a referendum, the question of separation could also be included on the 2026 ballot. She stressed the importance of respecting the constitutional rights of Indigenous peoples and honoring Treaties 6, 7, and 8.
Critics accused Smith of fueling separatist sentiments and creating instability that could harm the province’s economy. However, Smith reiterated her demands for the federal government to meet certain criteria to show respect to Albertans. These demands include securing corridors for oil and gas transport to various coasts, equalization transfers comparable to other large provinces, and consultation before imposing export tariffs affecting Alberta.
The premier’s address comes in the wake of the federal Liberals winning a fourth consecutive election, leading to increased calls for separation or even joining the United States. The separatist Republican Party of Alberta dismissed Smith’s remarks as a “political smokescreen.”
John Soroski, a political science professor, noted that some of Smith’s demands would be challenging to achieve, such as changing the equalization formula. He questioned whether the premier genuinely seeks outcomes or aims to perpetuate conflict with the federal government.
Opposition leader Naheed Nenshi criticized Smith for sympathizing with separatists, warning that such rhetoric could deter investors and harm the province’s reputation. Nenshi argued that while grievances around equalization and market access are valid, separatism is not a viable solution.
The Alberta Next panel, spearheaded by Smith, follows the Fair Deal Panel initiated by Jason Kenney in 2019. The Fair Deal Panel recommended exploring initiatives like establishing a provincial police force and holding a referendum on leaving the Canada Pension Plan. Some members of the United Conservative Party, like MLA Jason Stephan, advocate for including separation on a referendum ballot, citing economic challenges faced under the federal Liberals.
As Alberta navigates its relationship with the federal government, the province grapples with divergent views on how best to protect its economic interests while remaining part of Canada. Smith’s proposed panel aims to address these issues and engage Albertans in shaping the province’s future direction.
