Alberta Premier Plans Separation Referendum

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith revealed plans to hold a 2026 referendum about Canadian separation when a citizen-led petition reaches sufficient signature numbers. During a live broadcast Smith expressed her opposition to secession while stating she would respect voters' decisions if Ottawa maintained its current aggressive stance against Alberta. The announcement came after Prime Minister Mark Carney won the Liberal victory and U.S. President Trump threatened tariffs and discussed making Alberta into the 51st state.

The United Conservative government of Smith reduced petition requirements for referendums which led to increased speculation. The upcoming White House meeting between Carney and Trump creates additional pressure because Alberta's oil industry experiences U.S. trade restrictions. The decision by Smith demonstrates Alberta's resistance to federal authority but creates a risk of national disunity because Albertans must decide their fate during rising tensions between Ottawa and Washington.