Alberta Premier Danielle Smith confirmed that a binding referendum will be held on October 19 to determine the province’s future within Canada.Voters will choose between remaining in the nation or initiating a formal legal process to pursue sovereignty after months of growing separatist pressure.The decision follows significant criticism from federal leaders and indigenous groups regarding the potential for economic instability and lack of consultation.Recent public opinion polling suggests that despite regional frustration over federal energy policies, the majority of the population prefers to maintain the status quo.