Rural Alberta ridings show near-even split on referendum versus staying in Canada
A handful of rural Alberta constituencies posted almost tied results between staying in Canada and supporting a binding referendum, while the province overall favored remaining.
Alberta's recent vote on whether to remain in Canada or pursue a binding referendum on separation produced a province-wide majority for staying, with 1,418,912 ballots for that option and 461,503 for a referendum. However, three rural ridings were nearly split: Central Peace-Notley recorded 5,068 votes for staying versus 5,275 for a referendum, and Rimbey-Rocky Mountain House-Sundre saw 12,098 versus 12,459. Premier Danielle Smith’s own riding, Brooks-Medicine Hat, voted 13,842 to 8,073 for staying.
Mount Royal University scholar Lori Williams emphasized that even where the referendum option won, many voters are using it to pressure Ottawa rather than to endorse separation, and that broader public opinion prioritises issues like affordability, health care and housing over constitutional talks. She warned that the referendum outcome could affect the United Conservative Party’s future and Smith’s standing within it, especially ahead of the party’s upcoming AGM.
Why it matters
The near-even split in key rural ridings highlights growing regional tension over Alberta's relationship with the federal government.
How this story developed
- Oct 10 Prime Minister Mark Carney warns Alberta against secession vote
- Oct 14 Kenney and Notley announced a joint appearance at an Edmonton event ahead of the vote.
- Oct 15 Premier Danielle Smith and NDP leader Naheed Nenshi said no second referendum will be held if Albertans vote to stay.
- Oct 19 Albertans voted on the secession question.
- Oct 20 About 76% of Albertans voted to remain in Canada in a referendum, rejecting a second binding vote on secession.
- Oct 20 Calls for a United Conservative Party leadership challenge have emerged following the referendum result.
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