In a seismic shift in Alberta's political landscape, the Republican Party of Alberta (RPA) has burst onto the scene with 11% support in a new provincial poll, signalling growing frustration with the status quo as Premier Danielle Smith distances herself from separatist rhetoric.
The survey shows the United Conservative Party (UCP) dropping to 43% (-10 points from July), while the New Democratic Party (NDP) slips to 36% (-8). The Alberta Liberal Party (ALP) edges up to 5% (+5), the Alberta Buffalo Party (ABP) to 4% (+3), with others at 1%. The RPA's debut at 11% underscores a splintering of conservative voters amid ongoing debates over federal overreach and provincial autonomy.
RPA Leader Cam Davies hailed the results as a "wake-up call for Albertans tired of empty promises." In an exclusive interview, Davies said, "This surge shows our message of true fiscal conservatism and unapologetic defense of Alberta's interests is resonating. We're not fringe – we're the future."
He pointed to Smith distancing herself from the idea of Alberta separation. He also mentioned that Smith's six month deadline for Prime Minister Mark Carney to improve Ottawa's partnership with Alberta has come and gone with little action from Carney.
“Danielle Smith talks tough on TV, but when it comes time to deliver for Alberta, she folds like a cheap suit," said Davies. "She gave Ottawa six months. Carney gave her nothing. And now she’s pretending it never happened. That’s not leadership — that’s weakness."
As reported by the Calgary Herald, Smith said, "If there is a successful citizen-led referendum petition, our government will respect the democratic process."
She framed it as an "outlet" to prevent a separatist party from emerging, warning, "If there isn't an outlet, it creates a new party," and noting 30-40% of Albertans were dissatisfied enough to consider leaving.
Smith acknowledged the "never been higher" desire to quit Canada but urged Ottawa to address "nine bad laws" stifling energy, like emissions caps, to "cause that sentiment to subside."
As the 2027 election looms, Davies vowed to capitalize, "We'll keep pushing for Alberta-first policies – lower taxes, resource freedom – without the UCP's waffling."
With Smith's approval dipping, the RPA's rise could reshape the political right, forcing a reckoning on unity versus independence.