The Current The Current

Alberta votes

Oct 19, 2026 · 24m

Summary

Albertans vote in a historic referendum on remaining in Canada, a decision overshadowed by the tragic loss of soldiers at CFB Wainwright. The panel analyzes the political fallout for Premier Danielle Smith, who supports staying despite her party’s separatist leanings, and Prime Minister Mark Carney’s push for national unity. Discussion also covers the broader implications of the ballot’s other questions on immigration and constitutional reform, while addressing the urgent need to restart trade talks with the U.S. and the potential federal intervention to save jobs at the Stelco steel mill.

Topics discussed

Sponsor: ShipStation peak season readiness Introduction and panelist introductions Impact of CFB Wainwright tragedy on the vote Solidarity and national attachment to Alberta Pierre Poilievre's role as local MP and opposition leader National leadership response and military families Prime Minister Carney's rally in Alberta Carney's unity pitch and sovereignty framing Danielle Smith's political dilemma and federalist stance Sponsor: What on Earth podcast on seaweed Poilievre's message and the lack of pro-Canada pitch Future of the separatist movement and legitimacy Immigration and constitutional reform questions on ballot Constitutional amendment feasibility and government focus Trade war context and US midterm implications Stelco layoffs and potential nationalization Closing remarks and credits
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