Alberta voters reject separation

Alberta voters rejected a proposal to begin the legal process for a binding referendum on separating from Canada, according to unofficial results from the Oct. 19 provincial referendum.

Approximately three-quarters of voting locations reported that voters opposed the question regarding political independence. More than 2 million people, or about 64% of eligible voters, participated in the referendum. While the separation question failed, unofficial results showed majority support for seven of the nine other proposals. These included five questions regarding immigration policy, access to provincial services for nonpermanent residents, and requirements for proof of citizenship to vote in provincial elections.

Glen Argan, a columnist for The Catholic Register, noted that the results reflect a polarized environment. Premier Danielle Smith originally announced the referendum on Feb. 19, stating that immigration was a primary concern for Albertans. Official results from the vote are expected on Oct. 29.