Alberta Referendum: Voters reject push toward separation

Albertans have voted in favour of remaining part of Canada, according to the unofficial results of a provincial referendum released by Elections Alberta. Question 10 on the ballot asked voters whether Alberta should remain a province of Canada or whether the provincial government should begin the constitutional process required to hold a binding referendum on separation. The results provided show 1,416,634 votes for remaining in Canada, compared with 460,637 votes in favour of proceeding toward a binding separation referendum. Of the 1,877,271 votes cast on the question, approximately 75.4 per cent supported remaining in Canada and 24.6 per cent supported moving toward a separation vote. Alberta Premier Danielle Smith said she was “very pleased” with the result, describing it as a vote for “a stronger Alberta in a united Canada.” She said she would address the province on Tuesday evening. Prime Minister Mark Carney also welcomed the initial results, saying Albertans and Canadians would move forward together “with renewed purpose and high ambition.” Both leaders expressed support for Alberta remaining within a united Canada. The referendum also included nine additional questions on immigration, access to provincially funded services, voter identification and proposed constitutional changes. The unofficial results showed support for several measures, including greater provincial control over immigration and requiring proof of citizenship to vote in provincial elections. However, voters rejected a proposal to allow provinces to opt out of certain federal programs while retaining the associated funding. According to Elections Alberta, the referendum results remain unofficial, with official results scheduled to be announced on October 29, 2026. The separation-related question was non-binding and did not itself authorize Alberta to leave Canada.

Results at a glance Remain in Canada rather than begin the separation referendum process - supported .

Greater provincial control over immigration - Supported.

Immigration-status requirements for provincially funded programs - Supported.

12-month residency requirement for social support-Supported.

Fees for health care and education for non-permanent residents- Supported .

Proof of citizenship to vote -Supported.

Provincial selection of certain provincial court judges -Supported .

Abolish the federal Senate - Supported.

Opt out of federal programs while retaining funding - Rejected.

Give provincial laws priority in specified conflicts -Supported.