The largely conservative province may hold a referendum on separating from the nation in 2026, according to its premier.

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith said she and Prime Minister Mark Carney had a constructive phone call, but “until I see tangible proof of real change, Alberta will be taking steps to better protect ourselves from Ottawa.

Provincial leader Danielle Smith has made a priority of trying to win Alberta more autonomy from Ottawa The premier of Canada's oil-rich province of Alberta said Monday she would hold a referendum on separation from Canada next year if a citizen-led petition reaches the required number of signatures.