Premier Danielle Smith has urged separatists within her party to step back, with some local leaders showing support. Following the recent referendum, where voters overwhelmingly rejected a formal separation vote, Smith declared the outcome as the party’s new policy. She warned that those still pushing for secession should reconsider their stance or find another political affiliation to avoid jeopardizing the United Conservative Party’s electoral prospects.
Cabinet minister Justin Wright stated that the party’s MLAs and various local boards are fully backing Smith, emphasizing a unified stance across constituencies. He highlighted the widespread support for the premier within the party, with many boards passing motions in alignment with her direction.
Smith, who publicly endorsed the “remain” option during the referendum, faced criticism from the opposition NDP for allowing the separation question to proceed. Speculation arose about pro-independence groups attempting to gain internal party influence to further their agenda.
In response to the situation, Smith emphasized the importance of unity within the party and emphasized that advocating for separation publicly would lead to exclusion from candidacy and local board memberships in the upcoming election. Former Cypress-Medicine Hat UCP association leader Alan Rose stressed the need for swift resolution of the separation issue, noting the significant victory margin in favor of maintaining Alberta’s status within Canada.
The referendum results showed approximately 75% support for Alberta staying a province of Canada, with unofficial figures in Brooks-Medicine Hat and Cypress-Medicine Hat indicating 63% and 68% support for “remain,” respectively. Smith’s message to party members was clear: unity is crucial to prevent division in the party and potential negative consequences for Alberta.