Smith says caucus open to differing views after UCP MLA backs separation petition

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith says she welcomes a range of views within her United Conservative Party caucus after one of her MLAs publicly supported a petition calling for a referendum on provincial separation.

Speaking on her provincewide radio show Saturday, Smith said her government remains committed to a “sovereign Alberta within a united Canada,” despite comments from Jason Stephan, the MLA for Red Deer-South and her parliamentary secretary for constitutional affairs. Stephan wrote in an opinion piece published Friday that he supports a citizen-led petition to trigger a referendum on separation.

According to Stephan’s op-ed, he is encouraging supporters to sign the petition, arguing that a referendum would allow Albertans to hold the federal government accountable for what he described as harmful policies. He also rejected claims that such a vote would create economic instability.

Smith said her government has instead focused on advancing Alberta’s position within Confederation, citing steps such as signing an energy memorandum of understanding with Prime Minister Mark Carney.

The Alberta Chambers of Commerce has previously warned that renewed discussion about separation could harm investor confidence and economic stability in the province.