EDMONTON — Alberta Premier Danielle Smith is at odds with the president of her own party on the issue of the province quitting Canada.

Rob Smith, the president of the United Conservative party, has said the party will not take a position on the upcoming referendum regarding whether Alberta should stay in Canada.

Premier Smith, however, begs to differ.

Speaking in a radio interview today with QR Calgary and 880 CHED, Smith said she is the one who speaks for the party, and that the party position is Alberta stays in Canada.

Rob Smith, who is not related to Danielle Smith, could not be immediately reached for comment.

Premier Smith has directed Albertans go to the polls on Oct. 19 to vote on whether to stay in Canada or begin the process to hold a second referendum on leaving.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 27, 2026.

Jack Farrell and Lisa Johnson, The Canadian Press