Canada is awaiting the results of a non-binding vote in Alberta on whether the oil-rich province should hold a binding referendum on independence. The vote, held on October 19, has sparked intense debate over national unity, with Prime Minister Mark Carney warning that the timing is poor amid US trade tensions and annexation threats. Polls suggest less than a quarter of Albertans support independence, but separatist leader Mitch Sylvestre remains hopeful, stating, "We’re hoping to win." He added that the movement has already ignited a lasting spirit in the province.
With 3.1 million eligible voters, including 1.4 million advance ballots, the counting process began hours before polls closed at 10:10pm local time. Premier Danielle Smith, who called the referendum, voted against independence but pledged to respect the outcome. If a majority supports separation, she would proceed with a binding referendum. Foreign influence has also played a role, with US figures like Elon Musk and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent expressing support for Alberta’s independence.
Carney, who grew up in Alberta, has cautioned against the economic risks of separation, drawing parallels to Brexit’s uncertainty. Sylvestre criticized Carney’s warnings as "very unreasonable," while voters like Haley Erdegard expressed concerns about rushing into independence without further cooperation. The outcome of the vote remains uncertain, with no immediate projected result available.