Oct 21, 2026 6:44 PM - Connect Newsroom - Ramandeep Kaur with files from The Canadian Press

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith has issued a strong warning to members of her United Conservative Party (UCP), saying those who cannot support a pro-Canada position should return their party memberships and find another party.
In a video posted on social media Wednesday, Smith made it clear that the UCP cannot afford divisions over the issue, warning that internal disagreements could put the party at risk of losing the next provincial election to the opposition NDP.
Her comments came after Monday’s referendum, in which Albertans voted in favour of remaining part of Canada.
Smith acknowledged that some UCP members had voted against Confederation, saying she holds no ill feelings toward them. However, she stressed that separatists must recognize the public’s clear mandate that leaving Canada is not an option.


