Danielle Smith Pushes Back Against Rebuke from Manitoba’s Premier Over Referendum Question

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith speaks to the media at a meeting of western premiers in Kananaskis, Alta., on May 25, 2026. The Canadian Press/Jeff McIntosh

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith is challenging Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew’s criticism of her at the western premiers event last week about her province’s upcoming referendum question.

During the Western Premiers’ Conference in Kananaskis, Alta., on May 26, Kinew said Smith was wrong in her belief that a court ruling against a petition calling for a separation referendum is “anti-democratic.” He also said the court’s decision rightly called for proper consultation with First Nations.