Alberta premier says UCP will not rely on separatist backing

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith affirmed that the United Conservative Party will not seek support from separatist factions, insisting that the party align with the 75% of Albertans who voted to stay in Canada. She told party members that any candidate or board member who refuses to endorse this stance should not seek nomination. Smith discussed forthcoming legislation that will likely require Canadian citizenship to vote, and highlighted efforts to simplify ID verification for newcomers via a citizenship marker on driver’s licences.

She noted that immigration and health-care pressures will be addressed by directing skilled newcomers into high-paying jobs. While acknowledging that some separatist leaders helped her ascend to the leadership, she emphasized that her base is driven by opposition to COVID-era policies and cultural debates. Smith concluded that the party will continue to prioritize autonomy within Canada rather than pursuing a referendum.