UCP backs Alberta remaining in Canada after public split over separation stance

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith says the United Conservative Party supports Alberta remaining in Canada following conflicting public statements from party leadership ahead of a proposed fall referendum on separation.

The clarification came after UCP president Rob Smith said earlier this week the party would not take a position on Alberta separation before the vote. Danielle Smith has repeatedly stated she supports Alberta staying within Confederation.

In a new statement issued Wednesday, the party said it supports Alberta remaining in Canada and “has always supported that position.”

The disagreement highlighted divisions within the governing party over how it plans to approach a referendum campaign expected later this year. The referendum has renewed debate over Alberta’s relationship with the federal government and the role of the provincial government in advocating for autonomy-related policies.