Alberta Rejects Move Toward Independence From Canada

Voters in Alberta overwhelmingly rejected a proposal to begin a process toward separation from Canada, according to preliminary results from Monday’s provincial referendum.

With more than 1.4 million votes counted, about 76% supported remaining in Canada and roughly 24% backed starting a legal process that could eventually lead to a binding referendum on independence, unofficial Elections Alberta results showed. The vote itself was nonbinding and was not a direct referendum on independence. Final results were delayed after more than 100 polling stations extended their hours because of late openings.

Prime Minister Mark Carney called the outcome a “great result for Canada” and said Albertans had chosen unity. Alberta Premier Danielle Smith, who opposed independence but called the referendum amid pressure from separatists within her United Conservative Party, said the results showed support for “a stronger Alberta in a united Canada.”

The campaign reflected longstanding resentment toward the federal government in the oil-rich province. Separatists argued that Ottawa’s policies constrained Alberta’s economy and that its energy wealth subsidized other regions. Opponents urged unity amid Canada’s trade dispute with the United States and U.S. President Donald Trump’s annexation threats.

Separatist leaders indicated they would continue organizing despite the defeat. More than 1.35 million Albertans, representing 43% of eligible voters, had cast advance or special ballots before election day.