
Ontario Premier Doug Ford criticized Alberta Premier Danielle Smith on Tuesday for her openness to a referendum on Alberta independence from Canada, calling for national unity as the country braces for economic pressures from looming U.S. tariffs.
Speaking at a skilled trades event in Toronto, Ford took a pointed jab at Smith, saying, “This is a time to unite the country, not people saying, ‘oh, I’m leaving the country.’”
Ford's comments, reported by the Toronto Star, were a direct response to Smith’s recent statements that she would consider an independence vote if sufficient Albertan support emerged, a position that has sparked controversy and debate across the country.
Smith recently tabled Bill 54, which makes it easier for Albertans to organize a referendum.
On Monday, she announced the formation of an upcoming "Alberta Next Panel," which she will chair, to engage in town halls and discuss Alberta's future, focusing on protecting the province from "hostile" federal policies.
A referendum could be held in 2026 if enough signatures are gathered through a citizens initiative..
Ford stressed that a fragmented Canada would weaken its negotiating power on the global stage, particularly in trade discussions.
“We need to stand together, not tear ourselves apart,” he said, according to the Toronto Star.
In a press conference on Tuesday, Smith responded to Ford, saying in part, "Doug and I have a great friendship, and we don't agree on everything. In fact, we supported different people in the last federal election, and so we don't have to agree on everything. We just have different issues that we have to respond to in our respective jurisdictions."
Indigenous people have also criticized Smith’s openness to Alberta independence — some fearing their land will be taken away. Others feeling disrespected by the idea.
On Saturday, tempers flared at an independence rally at the Alberta Legislature.