Voters in Alberta, Canada’s oil-rich province, overwhelmingly chose to remain part of Canada in a referendum held Tuesday. With over 1.5 million votes counted, 76% supported staying in Canada, while 24% backed beginning a process toward separation. The referendum was not a direct vote on independence but would have set Alberta on a path toward a future separation vote if approved.
Prime Minister Mark Carney celebrated the result as a victory for national unity, especially amid U.S. President Donald Trump’s trade war and annexation threats. Carney emphasized that Albertans chose unity and collaboration, allowing Canada to accelerate efforts to diversify trade and develop major infrastructure projects. Alberta Premier Danielle Smith also welcomed the outcome, stating that Albertans voted for a stronger province within a united Canada.
Despite the apparent failure of the separatist movement, leaders like Keith Wilson and Jeff Rath of the Alberta Prosperity Project claimed progress. Wilson noted that nearly a quarter of Albertans felt the province needed better treatment from the federal government. Rath asserted that the movement had gained significant traction and would continue pushing for independence, even calling for Smith’s removal as leader of the United Conservative Party.
Some voters, like Dustin Degenhardt, expressed long-standing resentment toward Canada’s federal government, feeling Alberta had been mistreated. Others, such as Dave Malka, criticized the cost of the referendum, arguing funds could have been better spent on healthcare. The results were delayed due to extended voting hours at over 100 polling stations.