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Premier Danielle Smith rejects claims that Alberta government's referendum ads are neutral on separation issue
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith has firmly stated that the government's advertising campaign regarding the upcoming referendum is not neutral on the question of provincial separation, contradicting claims made by UCP president Rob Smith. Smith emphasized that she is actively promoting Alberta's continued membership in Canada, rejecting the notion that the campaign is balanced or neutral on the separation question. The UCP president had previously claimed that the premier assured him the campaign would be 'as neutral as possible' on the separation question, while heavily promoting the other nine referendum questions. Smith's comments came during a press conference where she addressed the controversy, stating, 'I'm not a neutral party in this,' and explaining that she believes Alberta should remain in Canada while addressing grievances within the province. The government has launched a $4 million advertising campaign urging Albertans to vote for specific answers on the 10 referendum questions, including the one on separation. UCP president Rob Smith acknowledged that many party members expressed disappointment over the campaign's focus, arguing that the government is spending significantly more on promoting the other nine questions than on the separation question. Smith's position has created internal tension within the United Conservative Party, with some members questioning her leadership. The Highwood UCP association recently called for a leadership review, citing her vocal support for the 'stay' option in the referendum. Political scientist Lori Williams noted that Smith's strategy appears to be avoiding alienating separatist supporters while trying to maintain party unity, though this approach has led to criticism from both sides. Smith has previously promised to campaign across Alberta for voters to choose to remain in Canada, but has recently avoided direct discussion of the separation issue in public addresses. During a recent virtual conference, Smith became emotional while discussing the referendum, acknowledging Alberta's frustrations with federal governance but expressing belief that Canada is 'working, every day, better than it has in a long time.' The controversy highlights the delicate balancing act the premier faces between addressing provincial grievances and maintaining unity within her party and the broader Canadian federation.