‘This is not poker’: Alberta goes to polls in referendum that has exposed divisions, not least among separatists
A referendum amid divided views
Separatists argue that Alberta is short-changed in its financial relationship with Ottawa and cannot fully develop its fossil fuel reserves. Premier Danielle Smith had long said a referendum was unnecessary, but called one after pressure from some members of her United Conservative party.
Smith has not campaigned for independence. In June, she estimated separation would cost about C$400bn for the transition, plus $25bn-$50bn in annual costs to establish a new country; some supporters accused her of betraying the movement.
Political lines cross
Former premiers Jason Kenney, from the Conservative party, and Rachel Notley, from the New Democratic party, appeared together in opposition to separation. Their joint appearance set aside an ideological rivalry that often shapes provincial politics.
Prime Minister Mark Carney joined former Alberta deputy premier Thomas Lukaszuk at a rally for Lukaszuk’s Forever Canadian group. Carney said some grievances among Albertans were real, while warning that a vote against Canada would bring deep uncertainty and lost opportunities.
Questions beyond independence
The separatist movement has faced competing interests, personal rivalries and allegations involving prominent figures. Jeff Rath, a lawyer linked to the Alberta Prosperity Project, is alleged to have mismanaged millions of dollars in First Nations trust funds; David Parker was at the centre of a voter-data scandal involving the personal information of nearly 3 million Albertans, which remains under investigation.
First Nations successfully sued to make the Alberta government dismiss the separation question or change its wording. Their argument cited five treaties signed with the Crown before Alberta became a province. Monday’s ballot also includes nine measures unrelated to separation, covering proposals on social programmes, judicial appointments and the senate.
Key points
- Voters are deciding whether Alberta should remain in Canada or hold a second binding independence vote.
- Danielle Smith has not campaigned for separation and outlined substantial estimated transition and annual costs.
- Former premiers Jason Kenney and Rachel Notley appeared together against separation.
- First Nations successfully forced a change to the referendum question’s wording.