After months of heated debates in Alberta, the question of whether residents wanted to stay in Canada or push for a second independence referendum has been answered. The CBC News Decision Desk has projected a victory for the “remain” option in the Alberta referendum.
Ten questions were posed to Albertans in this referendum, including one specifically on independence. The results for this crucial question were delayed due to a polling station in the Cardston-Siksika riding remaining open longer than expected. By 11:30 p.m., with over one million votes tallied, 76.6% favored remaining in Canada, while 23.5% supported the referendum option.
Aside from the independence query, five questions focused on immigration, and four centered on constitutional changes. These ballots are still being processed by election officials.
As the outcome unfolded late Monday night, supporters at a pro-federalist gathering erupted with joy, chanting “Canada! Canada!” Thomas Lukaszuk, the founder of the Forever Canadian group, expressed that the results showcased Alberta’s commitment to staying united with the rest of Canada.
While emphasizing unity, Lukaszuk acknowledged the importance of engaging with pro-independence Albertans to foster dialogue and understanding. Polls have long indicated a tilt towards remaining part of Canada, with the independence question added to the ballot earlier in the year following citizen petitions.
Premier Danielle Smith, who expressed satisfaction with the initial results, highlighted the widespread support for staying in Canada. She plans to address the public on Tuesday evening to discuss the referendum outcomes and the future direction for the province.
Throughout the campaign, proponents of independence argued that Alberta faced neglect from Ottawa and stifling federal environmental policies harming its oil and gas sector. Keith Wilson, a prominent figure in the independence movement, aimed to send a strong message to Ottawa through a strong separatist turnout.
Conversely, federalists warned of significant economic risks if Alberta were to separate from Canada. Premier Smith, known for her pro-Canada stance, acknowledged the divide and her position as a figure of contention among separatists.
Despite historically low voter turnouts in provincial elections, Albertans showed exceptional engagement in this referendum. Elections Alberta had projected a record turnout of 80 to 85%, a significant increase from the last provincial election’s 60.5% turnout.
The high level of participation was evident in the early voting numbers, with over 1.3 million people opting for advance voting or mail-in ballots. Delays in results occurred due to over 100 polling stations failing to open on time.
