Alberta Premier pushes constitutional overhaul as other premiers stay silent

Danielle Smith’s Alberta government will ask voters on Oct. 19 to endorse four constitutional reforms, ranging from Senate abolition to provincial control over judicial appointments and the ability to withdraw from federal programs without funding cuts. While the Senate proposal would require unanimous national consent and is acknowledged as unlikely, the other three could, in theory, meet the “7/50” rule that mandates support from provinces representing over half the population.

Smith’s team argues the changes reflect widespread provincial frustration with federal overreach. However, premiers from Saskatchewan, Northwest Territories, Nunavut, Yukon and others either declined to comment or gave vague statements, emphasizing that the decision rests with Albertans. Constitutional scholar Gerard Kennedy says only the judge-selection and program-opt-out measures might find enough backing, but federal Parliament would still need to cede power.

Past attempts, such as a 2001 amendment for Newfoundland’s name, suggest any special provincial privileges could face legal challenges. Critics argue the constitutional questions are peripheral to Smith’s broader campaign focused on immigration and pipeline projects.