Alberta premier warns UCP separatists to abandon independence push or exit party

In a video address, Premier Danielle Smith declared the United Conservative Party a pro-Canada organization and warned that members promoting Alberta’s secession must either conform or depart. She argued that a divided party would benefit the opposition NDP in the upcoming 2027 election and urged separatist-inclined members to consider other political options. Constituency president Mitch Sylvestre, a prominent separation activist, rejected the ultimatum, saying he will continue to champion independence and does not view Smith as his boss.

The message comes after a referendum in which 75 % of Albertans chose to stay in Canada, rejecting a binding vote on separation. Within the UCP, backbencher Jason Stephan announced he will not run again, and some separatist supporters are demanding a leadership review. Political scientist Lisa Young noted the move signals the premier’s concern about winning key ridings in Calgary and Edmonton if the separatist debate persists. Smith’s recent speeches have shifted from “sovereign Alberta within a United Canada” to “stronger Alberta within a united Canada.”