Danielle Smith rejects claims of muting pro-Canada referendum ads

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith has rejected claims from United Conservative Party (UCP) President Rob Smith that her government is muting pro-Canada messaging ahead of an upcoming referendum. The dispute follows a Facebook post by Rob Smith, which suggested that the government’s $4-million advertising campaign was being used to prioritize nine questions regarding immigration and constitutional reform while remaining neutral on Question 10, which asks if Alberta should remain in Canada or pursue separation.

Speaking in Airdrie, Premier Smith dismissed these characterizations, stating that the government’s advertising focuses on the nine questions she introduced in February. She reiterated her stance that she and her party support ‘a sovereign Alberta within a united Canada.’

The Premier is currently managing internal party tensions, as some UCP members advocate for independence. While critics and the opposition NDP suggest the referendum is an attempt to appease separatist hardliners, Smith maintains the vote is intended to provide a final answer on a divisive issue facing the province.