Alberta Premier Says She’ll Respect the Referendum Result on Provinces Future Either Way

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith speaks during a news conference in Calgary on May 22, 2026. The Canadian Press/Jeff McIntoshAlberta Premier Danielle Smith says she will actively campaign for the province to remain a part of Canada in the months leading up to the Oct. 19 referendum, but will respect the outcome should Albertans choose to hold a binding referendum on separation.Smith held a press conference in Calgary on May 22 to answer questions about her televised address from the previous night, when she announced a question would be added to the ballot in the upcoming provincial referendum to gauge voters’ thoughts on staying in Canada.