On Thursday, the Western Standard asked Alberta Premier Danielle Smith at a press conference if she has a breaking point, after which she would openly support Alberta independence.The United Conservative Party (UCP) recently tabled legislation, hours after the Liberal federal election win, to make it easier for citizens to hold a successful Alberta independence referendum. Bill 54, the Election Statutes Amendment Act, has sparked many questions from media and vociferous complaints from the Alberta NDP about true intentions and whether Smith supports Alberta leaving confederation.Smith says she wants "Alberta sovereignty within a united Canada" — an oxymoronic slogan that fuels more questions than answers. Is she a closet autonomist, at the breaking point, in need of an ideology reveal party attended by obstinate farmers, Bloc Québécois Leader Yves-François Blanchet, and the Alberta NDP? Perhaps..Many Quebec politicians have been open about their intention to leave Canada. They’re proud of it. If Smith harbours similar feelings, she must stand tall instead of dancing around the issue.She has, after all, said Canada is not working for Alberta — and hasn’t for years.“I would always allow citizens to put forward their own ideas, what they think our path forward should be,” Smith said on Thursday, when asked about her potential Alberta independence breaking point.She stressed the need for diplomacy. However, not long ago, she warned of a national unity crisis if Alberta’s energy demands remain ignored by the prime minister.She also mentioned Alberta’s legal pushback against Ottawa’s overreach, which is critical for the province’s well-being..Smith said she’s planning a travelling “what’s next panel” over the summer. It’s a good idea. However, the ideology-reveal party should come first. It could save time and energy when other matters — like the budget and healthcare — need attention.Speaking of wasted time and energy, the Western Standard reported on a referendum rally at the Alberta Legislature on Thursday.About seven people showed up, two of whom — elderly attendees — raised their middle fingers to media. It was a vile display, far beneath Smith’s acumen. Granted, she had nothing to do with it.In the meantime, divided priorities and added workload will strain the UCP and make it vulnerable to NDP and media attack before the next provincial election.
