Preston Manning Says He Is Baffled by Those Who View Alberta Premier Danielle Smith as a Separatist

Former Reform Party leader and federal opposition leader Preston Manning has expressed confusion over perceptions of Alberta Premier Danielle Smith as a separatist, saying she has consistently advocated for a strong Alberta within a united Canada. Manning made the remarks at an event promoting the Alberta and the West Assembly forum, beginning September 19, where Smith is expected to speak. Premier Smith has called a referendum for October 19 on Alberta's future in Canada, drawing responses from both supporters and critics including the provincial NDP.