Some callers to Alberta Premier Danielle Smith’s provincewide radio show are in support of her recently-announced referendum, while others rallying outside the legislature in Edmonton say they’re disheartened with the direction Smith is taking with the province.
Dozens of people gathered in Edmonton and Calgary to protest separatist sentiment
Fakiha Baig · The Canadian Press · Posted: Feb 21, 2026 9:41 PM EST | Last Updated: 9 hours ago
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Lisa Budney holds a protest sign as people take part in a pro-Canada anti-separatist rally in Edmonton on Feb. 21. (Ryan Jackson/The Canadian Press)
Some callers to Danielle Smith’s provincewide radio show expressed support for a referendum the Alberta premier announced this week, while others at a rally outside the legislature said they’re disheartened with the direction Smith is taking.
One caller congratulated Smith during her morning radio show for her speech on Thursday announcing a referendum in October, which is to include questions about whether social services should be restricted for newcomers.
“It reflected what many Albertans wanted to hear,” the caller told Smith.
“You’re on the right track and I’m so thankful you’re the premier at such a time as this,” another caller told her.
WATCH | Albertans protest separatist sentiment at Calgary rally: