Hour 1 of Ottawa Now for Tues. February 24th, 2026

The Alberta government’s plan to hold a referendum this Fall is being met with displeasure in both separatist and anti-separatist camps of the province. In October, Premier Danielle Smith will be taking feedback from Albertans on nine immigration and constitution-related topics. In previous decades of Canadian history, we have also seen separatist waves in the province of Quebec. Kristy Cameron tackles the bigger picture with Jon Roe, a Senior Research Associate at the Angus Reid Institute. Later in the show, we check in with Peter Graefe, a Political Science Professor at McMaster University. Meantime, we have great news for all music-lovers and concert-goers, as the official lineup for Ottawa Bluesfest 2026 has been unveiled! Organizers have also made an effort to increase the budget for a second line of artists, thanks in part to a new sponsorship deal with Hard Rock Hotel and Casinos. That story is on the way in Hour 1. But first, we bring you up to speed on today’s top headlines.