Alberta Premier Danielle Smith’s ambitious vision of doubling the province’s population to 10 million by 2050 has faced challenges due to changing public sentiment on immigration and a shift from an $8.3 billion surplus to a significant deficit. In response, Smith plans referendums on immigration policies and constitutional reforms for October 19, including a provocative question on Alberta’s potential separation from Canada. Her proposals, which target non-permanent residents and suggest restricting services, have drawn criticism from opposition leaders, who accuse her of scapegoating newcomers amid rising anti-immigrant sentiments. Smith defends her approach as necessary for prioritizing resources for permanent residents and citizens.
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