Over 50 days remain until the October 19 referendum in the province, but Elections Alberta reports a significant increase in requests for mail-in voting this autumn compared to previous elections. As of Tuesday, Elections Alberta has already received over 175,000 requests for special ballots, a considerable surge from the 59,589 special ballots requested for the 2023 provincial election, which was more than double the number requested before the 2019 election.
This fall, the province will present 10 questions for a referendum vote, covering various topics such as immigration, the Constitution, and the possibility of a second binding referendum on separation for Alberta. The rise in special ballot demand can be partially attributed to the discontinuation of the province’s “Vote Anywhere” system, according to Elections Alberta. Previously, voters could cast their ballots at any polling station in Alberta during advanced voting. However, recent changes to the Elections Act have ended this system and expanded eligibility for special ballots to more voters.
Applications for special ballots opened in July and will continue until October 9, accessible to all eligible voters. Elections Alberta will start mailing out special ballots on September 1, and voters must return their special ballot packages by mail before 5 p.m. on October 16. Electoral officer Gordon McClure suggested in July that some Albertans may opt for mail-in voting to allow extra time to review the 10 referendum questions thoroughly.
Political scientist Lori Williams from Mount Royal University highlighted the potential for longer wait times due to voter confusion over the wording of the referendum questions. She mentioned that the complexity of the questions might prompt voters to take more time to consider their choices, leading to increased interest in mail-in voting. Williams emphasized the significance of the referendum for Alberta and Canada’s future.
To obtain a special ballot, individuals can complete an online form on Elections Alberta’s website, send an email, or contact the returning office for their electoral division starting September 21. Advanced voting will take place from October 13 to 17, with voting locations open on October 19 from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.
