Alberta’s political scene has been anything but dull lately, with various significant events capturing headlines in 2025. The year was marked by competing citizen-led petitions regarding separation, multiple deployments of the notwithstanding clause, a series of recall petitions, advancements in a pipeline deal, and municipal elections across the province. Looking ahead to 2026, Albertans are gearing up to participate in referendums on several key issues.
Premier Danielle Smith, while expressing support for a sovereign Alberta within Canada, hinted at the possibility of a separation referendum in 2026 if there is enough public demand. Despite a recent court ruling deeming a separation vote unconstitutional, efforts are underway by groups like the Alberta Prosperity Project to push for a referendum question on Alberta’s independence.
Furthermore, a number of MLAs, including Premier Smith herself, are facing citizen-led recall petitions as a response to government actions like invoking the notwithstanding clause during the teachers’ strike. While these petitions may cause some concern among politicians, experts suggest that successful recalls are unlikely.
The upcoming budget release in late February is expected to reveal a larger-than-anticipated deficit for the province, largely attributed to fluctuating oil prices. Additionally, a memorandum of understanding signed by Alberta and Ottawa paves the way for a potential new bitumen pipeline to the West Coast, though challenges remain with opposition from groups like the Assembly of First Nations and leaders in British Columbia.
In the midst of these developments, discussions on Alberta’s relationship with Ottawa, potential changes to the Canada Pension Plan, healthcare reforms allowing for private surgeries, and speculation about an early election are shaping the political landscape in Alberta. While the possibility of an early election is being debated, many political analysts believe it hinges on various factors, including the outcomes of ongoing political issues and public sentiment.