Albertans are heading to the polls Monday in a referendum that could set the stage for another vote on whether the province should separate from Canada.
The October 19 referendum includes 10 questions, with the most significant asking voters whether Alberta should remain in Confederation or begin the legal process required to hold a binding referendum on independence.
A vote in favour of beginning that process would not mean Alberta immediately leaves Canada.
Instead, it would direct the provincial government to pursue the legal steps needed for a future vote, potentially involving constitutional negotiations with Ottawa and other provinces.
The other nine questions address provincial issues, including immigration, health care, education and voter identification requirements.
Smith and Carney weigh in
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith called the referendum earlier this year, saying residents deserve an opportunity to have their voices heard on the province’s future.
Despite calling the vote, Smith has publicly stated she supports Alberta remaining in Canada.
“I support Alberta remaining in Canada. That is how I would vote on separation in a provincial referendum,” Smith said during a provincial address in May.
Smith has also pledged that her government will respect the referendum’s outcome.
Prime Minister Mark Carney has been campaigning against separation, attending rallies in Calgary and Edmonton in the days leading up to the vote.
Speaking in Edmonton on Friday, Carney warned that pursuing independence could create years of uncertainty.
“This is not poker. A vote against Canada is a dangerous bluff that will lead to years of deep uncertainty and lost opportunities for Albertans and Canadians,” Carney said.
He has also argued that Alberta and the rest of Canada are better positioned to address economic challenges together.
The referendum comes amid longstanding disagreements over federal energy policies, provincial autonomy and Alberta’s economic relationship with the rest of Canada.
When will results be available?
Polling stations are open Monday from 9 a.m. until 8 p.m. local time in Alberta.
Elections Alberta says unofficial results will begin appearing after polls close, with counting expected to be completed within 48 hours.
That means the full unofficial count should be available by Wednesday evening.
The results are non-binding, regardless of the outcome.
If voters choose to remain in Canada, the referendum will not initiate a separation process.
If voters support beginning the legal process toward independence, the province would still face additional legal and constitutional requirements before any separation could take place.
Official information about the referendum and results is available through Elections Alberta.
