News Analysis
The stakes for Western alienation were raised this week when Alberta Premier Danielle Smith said she would allow a question on separation to go to a referendum if it meets the requirements. While Smith made it clear she doesn’t support separation herself, she said Albertans holding such views should not be called “traitors.”
Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe also hasn’t ruled out allowing a vote on separation if residents triggered legislation for a plebiscite, though he said he still hopes Saskatchewan can continue to be part of Canada.
While the two provinces have in consecutive elections voted against the federal Liberals, the Liberals still secured a fourth term in the 2025 election largely due to votes from Central Canada. Smith pointed out that Albertans are not questioning the election but rather feeling “deeply frustrated” that the same ministers who brought in policies she says lock in Alberta’s resources, and thereby its prosperity, are back in power, and that policies the province is opposed to remain in force….