Will Danielle Smith steer Alberta away from separation, or will this train keep gathering steam?

Premier Danielle Smith of Alberta has been facing criticism for her stance on the Canadian flag placement during her speeches. Despite the rumors and accusations of being a separatist or supporting the Alberta secessionist movement, Smith has made it clear that she wants Alberta to remain part of Canada.

In a recent interview on the Alberta podcast Real Talk with Ryan Jespersen, Smith emphasized that acknowledging the existence of separatist sentiments does not mean she is promoting them. She is committed to keeping these sentiments in check and ensuring they do not escalate.

However, Smith’s recent demands for Prime Minister Mark Carney have raised concerns about her true intentions. She has called for easier access to extend oil and gas pipelines to all three ocean coasts, a surge in financial transfers, and the removal of many of the Liberal government’s climate policies. Political scientist Feo Snagovsky believes that the federal government may struggle to meet these demands, potentially leading to a deadlock in negotiations.

The prospect of a referendum on Alberta’s separation from Canada in 2026 has also sparked debate. Smith has lowered the threshold for the number of signatures required to force a referendum, raising concerns about the potential rise in separatist sentiments. The parallels to the Brexit referendum in the UK are evident, with the possibility of a similar outcome looming over Alberta.

The United Conservative Party (UCP), which Smith leads, is also facing internal challenges regarding separatist sentiments within its ranks. With a byelection approaching in Olds-Didsbury-Three Hills, there is a possibility of nominating a separatist candidate, which could further divide the party. Smith’s appointment of Alberta Speaker Nathan Cooper as a Washington envoy has opened up the potential for a separatist candidate to win in the byelection.

Despite these challenges, Smith has announced plans for a panel to tour the province and address federal-provincial grievances. This road-tripping summer panel will provide a platform for Albertans to voice their concerns and potential solutions.

Amidst the rise of separatist sentiments, there are other pressing issues in Alberta, such as the economic impact of lower oil prices, ongoing investigations into Alberta Health Services, and the looming threat of potential strikes by teachers and provincial employees. The province is also contending with a measles outbreak and U.S. tariff threats.

As Premier Danielle Smith navigates these challenges, it is clear that the issue of separatism is just one of many complex issues facing Alberta. The path forward will require careful navigation and a focus on addressing the diverse concerns of Albertans.