Becoming 51st U.S. state is a 'non-starter' for Albertans, Premier Smith says
As some Americans suggest Alberta should join the union, Smith dismissed the idea on Tuesday, saying Albertans don't want to swap Ottawa for Washington.
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Alberta Premier Danielle Smith has dismissed suggestions that Alberta become the 51st U.S. state, calling the idea a "non-starter" for most Albertans.
"I don't think Albertans want to swap an overbearing Ottawa for an overbearing Washington," Smith said Tuesday in Calgary.
Some Americans have floated the proposal as Alberta navigates tensions with the federal government. Smith's comments come as she continues focused efforts on trade diplomacy with the United States, following months of discussions about cross-border commerce and tariff disputes.
In August, Smith said U.S. trade demands were "too painful" for Canada to accept. The province has also been preparing for an October 19 referendum on separation, a measure that has divided First Nations leadership and prompted debate within the province's government ranks.
The facts
What did Premier Smith say about Alberta becoming a U.S. state?
Premier Danielle Smith called the idea a 'non-starter' for most Albertans, saying on Tuesday, September 1, 2026 in Calgary that Albertans don't want to swap an overbearing Ottawa for an overbearing Washington.
When is Alberta's separation referendum scheduled?
Alberta is preparing for a referendum on separation on October 19, 2026.
