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In a fervent show of support, Alberta Premier Danielle Smith lauded Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre during his party’s national convention in Calgary. This endorsement came shortly after Poilievre secured an impressive 87.4 per cent backing from party delegates, solidifying his leadership. While Smith’s speech primarily reflected on the decade-long influence of former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, it notably sidestepped pressing Alberta issues, including the province’s ongoing independence movement and her recent energy agreement with Prime Minister Mark Carney.
Poilievre’s Leadership Solidified
On Friday evening, Poilievre’s leadership was reconfirmed as he received overwhelming support from the party’s delegates. This strong mandate, as highlighted by Smith, is seen as crucial for confronting what she termed “the terrible policies of the last 10 years.” Her remarks, delivered with a nod to bilingualism, underscored a united front among party members.
Smith’s address, however, stood in contrast to the immediate concerns within Alberta. Despite the fervour surrounding Poilievre’s leadership, Smith did not address the growing calls for independence or the implications of her government’s recent policy changes aimed at facilitating a potential referendum on the matter.
The Energy Agreement’s Implications
Smith’s relationship with Prime Minister Mark Carney has been notably more amicable than with his predecessor. In November, she signed a memorandum of understanding that effectively relaxed numerous federal energy and environmental regulations. This agreement was framed as a pivotal step toward advancing a vital pipeline project to the West Coast, with Smith asserting that it serves as proof that “Canada can work.”
Yet, amid this backdrop, Alberta’s independence sentiment continues to simmer, with support fluctuating between 20 and 30 per cent. Smith’s government has initiated changes aimed at simplifying the process for citizens to push for a referendum, which has invigorated separatist campaigns across the province.
Addressing Provincial Autonomy
During her speech, Smith was welcomed with enthusiastic applause from the crowd, many of whom resonated with her emphasis on provincial autonomy. She highlighted her government’s controversial policy restricting transgender athletes over the age of 12 from competing in female amateur sports, a move that has sparked significant debate.
“Pierre also believes in protecting our women and girls and upholding fairness and safety,” Smith stated, drawing a standing ovation from the audience. This assertion reflects a broader Conservative agenda that seeks to resonate with traditional values, particularly in the context of gender and sports.
The Road Ahead for Alberta Conservatives
While Smith’s speech briefly acknowledged Carney’s aspirations for straightforward pipeline construction, it largely focused on rallying support around Poilievre’s leadership and the Conservative platform. The absence of discussion on Alberta’s independence movement leaves a gap in addressing a significant issue that continues to polarise Albertan society.
Poilievre himself has commented on the rise of separatist sentiments, attributing them to Trudeau’s handling of provincial jurisdictions and expressing a desire to understand the motivations behind such feelings rather than merely condemning them.
Why it Matters
The dynamics within the Conservative Party are pivotal not only for party cohesion but also for the future of Alberta itself. As sentiments for independence grow, the provincial government’s approach to energy, rights, and autonomy will be scrutinised. By aligning closely with Poilievre, Smith aims to solidify a Conservative identity that resonates with Albertans, yet the lack of direct engagement with independence discussions could prove to be a critical oversight. The choices made by leaders today will shape Alberta’s political landscape for years to come, and the implications extend well beyond provincial borders.
