Premier Danielle Smith’s assurance that she will not call for another referendum on separation if the vote to remain prevails this month is facing resistance from notable Alberta separatists.
Cory Morgan, leading the third-party advertiser Pathway to Independence, expressed uncertainty about the duration of Smith’s premiership, suggesting that circumstances could change in the future, despite her current stance.
During an exclusive interview with CBC News’ chief correspondent Adrienne Arsenault, Smith emphasized her commitment to forgo a second referendum if Albertans opt to stay in Canada on October 19. Voters will decide between staying in Canada (Option 1) or initiating the process for a subsequent binding separation referendum (Option 2).
Morgan viewed Smith’s statement as an attempt to project a firm position towards the end of the campaign, criticizing it for potentially disregarding the principles of direct democracy. He argued that if Albertans express a desire for another referendum in the future, it is Smith’s duty to honor that choice.
Acknowledging the unlikelihood of a swift follow-up referendum if Option 2 fails, Morgan emphasized that the separatist movement will persist. Mitch Sylvestre, CEO of the Alberta Prosperity Project, concurred with this sentiment, cautioning that Smith’s stance on a second referendum might not resonate well within her party, given the considerable support for Alberta independence.
Recent polling data by Janet Brown Opinion Research for CBC News indicated that a majority of United Conservative Party supporters would vote in favor of separation in the upcoming referendum. The UCP members will have an opportunity to voice their opinions on the issue at the party’s annual general meeting next month.
With the referendum approaching, Sylvestre expressed cautious optimism about the separatist side’s chances, noting a hidden support base that may influence the outcome. Meanwhile, Morgan observed a growing interest in voting for Option 2 but acknowledged the challenge of securing a majority for independence.
Advance polling will take place from October 13 to 17, with voting stations open on referendum day, October 19, from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.
