Former Alberta cabinet minister says Premier Smith can't survive UCP crisis
Peter Guthrie, who leads the Progressive Tory Party of Alberta, warns that Monday's referendum result has left Smith with more enemies than supporters.
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Peter Guthrie, a former Alberta cabinet minister now leading the Progressive Tory Party of Alberta, says Premier Danielle Smith cannot survive the political crisis within the United Conservative Party created by Monday's referendum.
Guthrie was removed from the UCP caucus after criticizing the government over a health-care procurement scandal. He contends the referendum angered both federalists and separatists, leaving Smith with more enemies than supporters within her own party.
On Monday, Oct. 20, Alberta voters overwhelmingly backed staying in Canada: 75 per cent cast ballots to keep the province in the federation, and 75 per cent voted against holding a second, binding referendum on separation.
Smith's office dismissed Guthrie's assessment, saying he is out of touch with Albertans and peddling misinformation. On Wednesday, Smith issued a statement saying anyone running for or speaking for the UCP must accept a pro-Canada stance. She added that separatists intent on turning the party into a vehicle for independence should join a different party.
"Internal division could cost UCP next year's election," Smith said, signalling concern about party unity as the province heads toward a provincial vote.
The facts
What were the results of Alberta's referendum on October 20, 2026?
75 per cent of Alberta voters backed staying in Canada, and 75 per cent voted against holding a second, binding referendum on separation.
Who is Peter Guthrie?
Peter Guthrie is a former Alberta cabinet minister who now leads the Progressive Tory Party of Alberta. He was removed from the UCP caucus after criticizing the government over a health-care procurement scandal.
What did Premier Smith say on Wednesday, October 21, 2026?
Premier Smith issued a statement on Wednesday, October 21, 2026, saying anyone running for or speaking for the UCP must accept a pro-Canada stance and that separatists should join a different party.
