Poilievre Blasts Separation Referendum as Solution to Canada's Economic Woes

Premier Danielle Smith's United Conservative Party government has called a referendum for October 19, asking Albertans whether they want to stay in Canada or have a second, binding vote on leaving the country.

Alberta's Premier supports the province staying part of Canada and plans to vote accordingly, but critics argue that she is appeasing separatist hardliners within her party.

Pierre Poilievre, the leader of the opposition, spoke in Alberta ahead of the referendum. He blamed Liberal government policies for leaving Canadians struggling financially, from gas pumps to grocery stores and homebuying.

According to Poilievre, separation will not solve these problems; rather, becoming even more Canadian will be the solution.