Premier Danielle Smith: No Separatist Petition Signed
Smith clarifies she hasn't signed separatist petitions, reaffirms sovereignty stance.
EDMONTON, AB — Premier Danielle Smith shut down speculation Wednesday, confirming she has not signed a separatist petition—or any petition, for that matter.
Speaking at the Alberta Legislature on December 10, 2025, Smith addressed questions that have circulated around her government's autonomy agenda and growing chatter about groups like the Buffalo Project pushing provincial independence conversations.
The Sovereignty Line Holds
Smith reiterated her consistent position: Alberta sovereignty within a united Canada. Not separation. Not independence. The Premier's stance reflects the framework laid out in the Alberta Sovereignty Within a United Canada Act, passed in December 2022, which asserts the province's right to push back against federal overreach without leaving Confederation.
Since taking office, Smith's government has pursued greater provincial control through initiatives like the proposed Alberta Pension Plan, which would pull the province out of the CPP, and explorations of a provincial police force—both recommendations from the 2020 Fair Deal Panel Report.
Why This Matters Now
The clarification comes as advocacy groups continue amplifying autonomy messaging. The Buffalo Project, among others, has circulated petitions calling for stronger provincial rights and pushback against federal policies. Smith's statement draws a clear boundary between her government's autonomy agenda and outright separatist movements.
With the 2025-2026 Alberta Budget allocating funds toward legal challenges and expanded provincial jurisdiction, the Premier's words signal where the line sits: more power for Alberta, yes. Leaving Canada? No.
The debate over how much sovereignty is enough continues. But for now, the Premier's signature isn't on any petition asking Albertans to choose sides.
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