Natalie Thoma dismisses the notion of Alberta breaking away from Canada.
She questions the rationale behind Alberta seeking independence and emphasizes that other pressing issues, such as the escalating cost of living, deserve more attention.
Thoma, a Calgary equipment operator, expresses concerns about the disparity between low wages and the continuously rising living expenses.
While standing outside Marlborough Mall in Calgary’s northeast, Thoma criticizes Alberta Premier Danielle Smith for seemingly wavering on the topic of Alberta independence by endorsing the concept of a sovereign Alberta within a united Canada.
Thoma advocates for provincial leaders, including the premier, to demonstrate unwavering support for Canada, emphasizing the country’s greatness.
A recent poll conducted by Janet Brown Opinion Research for CBC News reveals that 67% of Albertans believe that provincial party leaders should disclose their stance on a potential referendum regarding Alberta’s separation from Canada.
Recently, Premier Smith affirmed her belief that Alberta should remain part of Canada and asserted that her government’s policy is to assert sovereignty within a united Canada.
However, Smith’s statement drew criticism from Jeffrey Rath, a prominent Alberta separatist, who warned Smith against advocating for Canada if she does not support Alberta independence.
The poll results and Rath’s comments highlight the looming political challenges for Smith and the United Conservative Party, with expectations that she must navigate carefully to maintain support.
Despite the potential risks, Brown suggests that Smith is under pressure to hold a referendum on separation due to the backing she received from separatist supporters during her UCP leadership bid in 2022.
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Rath emphasizes that a significant portion of United Conservative Party members support Alberta’s secession from Canada, as indicated by the recent CBC News poll showing that 57% of UCP supporters would vote for independence.
The poll also reveals that while 27% of Albertans are in favor of independence, a majority, comprising 67%, oppose the idea of breaking up the country.
Moreover, the poll indicates varying views among Albertans regarding provincial leaders declaring their position on independence, with the majority of those against independence expecting transparency from politicians, compared to separatist-leaning individuals who are more accepting of politicians remaining silent.
Mount Royal University political scientist Duane Bratt explains that separatists prefer Smith not to campaign against separatism, emphasizing the need for her neutrality on the matter.
Those who lean left politically, support the NDP, or hold negative opinions of Smith are more inclined to demand transparency from provincial leaders regarding their stance on independence.
Furthermore, individuals with stronger ties to Canada and admiration for Prime Minister Mark Carney, along with highly educated individuals, women, and Edmonton residents, express a similar desire for clarity from political leaders on the independence issue.
For Alberta resident Albert Forsey, who supports Alberta independence, a referendum on separation presents an opportunity for citizens to voice their opinions on the province’s future in Confederation.
Conversely, Deng Duang from Calgary urges Premier Smith to unequivocally support Canada, emphasizing the importance of clear communication from leaders on such critical matters.
Political scientist Bratt raises concerns about Smith’s neutral stance on independence, suggesting that maintaining neutrality may prove challenging during a referendum campaign.
Smith’s press secretary reiterates the government’s position that Alberta should remain part of Canada, emphasizing the premier’s commitment to maintaining sovereignty within the country.
The CBC News survey, conducted between April 7 and April 22, 2026, by Trend Research under the direction of Janet Brown Opinion Research, involved 1,200 Albertans and utilized a hybrid methodology. The survey results are representative of various demographic factors with a margin of error of +/- 2.8 percentage points, 19 times out of 20.
The survey methodology included contacting respondents via telephone and offering them the option to
