Alberta Premier Danielle Smith defends promise of a potential referendum on separation [Video]

Premier Danielle Smith says her focus will be on repairing the destruction she says Ottawa has caused to Alberta over the past decade as the idea of separation from Canada gains greater public attention.

During a news conference Tuesday, Smith reiterated that she would hold a referendum on provincial separation in 2026 if citizens gather the required signatures on a petition.

Smith said she didn’t want to presume a referendum will happen, but said she will honour the voting process.

Smith said her government has no plans to put the question of Alberta separating from Canada to Albertans, but her government is taking steps to demand respect from Ottawa. 

“I do not support Alberta separating from Canada,” Smith said. 

“I personally still have hope that there is a path forward for a strong and sovereign Alberta within a united Canada. So I am going to do everything within my power …