Here's her update.

Over in the other place, the separatist far-right is slowly coming around to some basic realizations about Danielle Smith.

You can't generate leverage by telling everyone it's all for leverage. It's like signing a ransom note. 🤦‍♂️

Still no plan. 80 days out. Nothing says grassroots democracy like NDAs. And open calls for "anonymous experts" instill a lot of confidence.

Messaging is on point, guys. No notes.

The lack of clarity on the "other nine" referendum questions is galling. These policies will affect tens of thousands of Albertans, say nothing about the impacts on businesses --and yes, public services -- that depend on them. 🔗 www.cbc.ca/news/canada/...

FTR: bike lanes are the first things closed during road construction. And the few that remain open are the only way around downtown Edmonton in our ongoing traffic Armageddon.

This isn't a slip of the tongue or an off-handed remark. The premier's office sends Bruce McAllister onstage and online to say vile things because they want him to.

The Smith government has had years to address the root causes of the affordability crisis. Instead, they continue to throw money at Albertans to forget about it. And they only do that when the premier's polling numbers take a nosedive.

Hear me out: the signatures might not have been valid?

At the Rideau Club, I argued that Alberta is "the jilted lover of Confederation: a partner who feels under-appreciated and misunderstood, yet yearns for a closer relationship with the rest of Canada. We should approach the upcoming referendum with that in mind." 🔗 open.substack.com/pub/drjaredw...

Tune into The Current on CBC this morning to hear Travis Toews and me make the case for Alberta to LeadNotLeave.ca Canada.

Even after today's announcement, my four questions still stand. www.cbc.ca/news/canada/...

Someone in the premier's office has to explain how holding a referendum on separation helps you achieve any of these other goals. Is it a knife-to-the-throat strategy? That's the only way it makes sense. Because a separation vote wastes any goodwill necessary to achieve these amendments.

Who is writing government policy? This clarification is coming from the United Conservative Party President. Is it authoritative? Who knows.

"Jared Wesley, a political scientist at the University of Alberta, and conservative political activist Ken Boessenkool are organizing a pop-up think tank, championing the province’s role in the country..."

Will Danielle Smith's referendum be in a "check all that apply" format? Because you could want to... ⚪️ remain and hold a vote ⚪️ remain and not hold a vote ⚪️ leave and hold a vote ⚪️ leave and not hold a vote Not sure this is a dichotomous choice.

As an Albertan, I'm embarrassed and angry. As an analyst, I'm torn.

Inspired by @jlisayoung.bsky.social's metaphor, I've been thinking a lot about the path to a possible separatism referendum this fall. Not only is it entirely avoidable. It is clearly intentional. Lisa's piece, in case you missed it: open.substack.com/pub/lisayoun...

It's been a busy calendar year, but very rewarding to see four books hit shelves. Very grateful to work with amazing co-authors and contributors, including @alexmarland.bsky.social, @mireillelalancette.bsky.social and @jplewis.bsky.social. For more on the books, visit: jaredwesley.ca.

Real conservatives don't play politics with the courts. Radicals do.

Entirely predictable. This was the endgame: give the appearance of collecting signatures. Whether or not you meet the threshold (legally) matters little if they'll never be counted. Then pressure the premier to call the vote. Will the premier call the big bluff?

open.substack.com/pub/thebreak...

Another great piece from @rwarnica.bsky.social. Gift link*: www.thestar.com/gift-redeem?... *Please subscribe to the Toronto Star, the Globe, the National Observer, and other outlets. Great journalism is expensive, and democracy isn't free.

"The case Sylvestre made to audiences across Alberta to drum up support for Alberta independence was riddled with distortions, disinformation and conspiracy theories." Warnica offers one of the most in depth fact-checks of the separatist leader's claims. Gift link: www.thestar.com/gift-redeem?...

Albertans should not be asked to vote in any referendum or election while basic questions remain unanswered about our democratic institutions. Premier Smith should call a public inquiry. Now. 🔗https://drjaredwesley.substack.com/p/albertas-voters-list-scandal-deserves

The only way to clear the air before Albertans cast another ballot: Premier Smith should call a public inquiry. Tomorrow. I will have more on my thinking this afternoon.

Claims that Stay Free Alberta was unaffiliated with the Centurion Project strain credulity. This post is *still active* as of 11:00pm MT, May 2, 2026.

High demand = bigger venue = more tickets available! But hurry! www.eventbrite.ca/e/alberta-at...