Alberta Premier Danielle Smith speaks at a press conference in Calgary on Feb. 17, 2026. The Canadian Press/Dayne Patterson
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith says the province will hold a referendum this October seeking a mandate to pursue sweeping changes on immigration as it relates to Alberta, as well as changes to the Constitution.
Smith made the comments during a provincial address on the evening of Feb. 19, saying the referendum is necessary because current immigration levels are straining Alberta’s health care, education, and infrastructure and are not sustainable for taxpayers.
