UCP Celebrates Fundraising Success as Danielle Smith Reaffirms Support for a United Canada

Calgary, Alberta: Alberta Premier Danielle Smith used the United Conservative Party’s annual leader’s dinner in Calgary to highlight the party’s fundraising strength while reaffirming her support for Alberta remaining within Canada amid ongoing debate over a possible separation referendum.

Speaking before a sold-out crowd of approximately 2,000 supporters at Calgary’s BMO Centre on Friday evening, Smith reiterated that she personally supports a strong Alberta within a united Canada, even as her government prepares for a referendum process that could eventually lead to a vote on provincial independence.

“I’ve always been clear that I believe in a strong and sovereign Alberta within a United Canada,” Smith told attendees. “That is the position of our party, our caucus and our government.”

The premier addressed criticism surrounding the proposed referendum, saying Albertans should have an opportunity to express their views on issues they consider important. She argued that delaying or avoiding debate on Alberta’s future would only suppress public discussion rather than resolve growing frustrations among some residents.

While acknowledging the existence of separatist sentiment in parts of the province, Smith emphasized that she will personally vote for Alberta to remain part of Canada.

The annual fundraising event also showcased the governing United Conservative Party’s financial strength. Party officials reported that the $250-per-ticket dinner generated more than $1 million in fundraising revenue, with all available seats sold out.

According to the UCP, the party raised roughly twice as much as the opposition Alberta New Democratic Party during the first quarter of 2026, underscoring its fundraising advantage ahead of future political campaigns.

During her remarks, Smith encouraged Albertans who are frustrated with the federal government to consider what she described as recent policy gains achieved through negotiations with Ottawa, particularly in the areas of energy and natural resource development.

She argued that Alberta’s advocacy efforts have influenced federal policies and created new opportunities for economic growth. Smith pointed specifically to discussions surrounding major energy infrastructure projects and said cooperation between Alberta and Ottawa has produced positive results for the province.

Earlier in the day, the premier also expressed optimism that a proposed new pipeline project to Canada’s West Coast could help reduce separatist sentiment by demonstrating progress on long-standing Alberta concerns regarding market access for energy exports.

The Alberta government is expected to submit its proposed pipeline project to the federal government’s Major Projects Office before Canada Day as part of its broader strategy to expand energy infrastructure and strengthen the province’s economy.

As debate over Alberta’s future continues, Smith has maintained that while her government supports remaining within Canada, Albertans should have the opportunity to voice their opinions through democratic processes. The issue is expected to remain a central political topic in the province in the months ahead.