Alberta votes in nonbinding referendum on leaving Canada as Premier Smith backs Remain
In brief
- Alberta held a nonbinding referendum on staying in Canada or pursuing independence.
- Premier Danielle Smith publicly backed the Remain option, Crypto Briefing reported.
- Separatist groups said they were satisfied just to have the question put to a vote.
- Final results weren't available when Crypto Briefing published its report.
What voters were asked
The question is simple enough. Albertans were asked whether the province stays in Canada or starts down a path towards independence, and the vote is nonbinding, so the result doesn't legally bind anyone.
Crypto Briefing said the referendum drew significant interest both inside Alberta and across Canada. The outlet also referred to polling that showed strong support for staying in Canada. It didn't name the poll, and it didn't give any figures, so readers can't check how strong that support actually is.
The referendum has sparked significant interest both locally and nationally
Where Smith and the separatists stand
Premier Danielle Smith has publicly backed the Remain option, according to the report. Crypto Briefing also said she's acknowledged the need to act if separatists win a majority. The outlet didn't say what that action would involve (and it didn't quote her directly on either point).
The separatist camp's reaction was different. Crypto Briefing reported that separatist groups were satisfied simply to have the question put to a vote, which suggests getting it on the ballot was a goal for them in its own right.
What comes next
Final results were expected imminently when Crypto Briefing published. We aren't reporting turnout, vote shares or a winner here because the source didn't provide any of them.
Everything past that point is the outlet's analysis rather than reported fact. Crypto Briefing wrote that many people see the referendum as a symbolic gesture that could shape future political discourse in Alberta. It added that a closer-than-expected vote could point to a more contentious political environment in the province.
Until the count is published, that's a reading of the situation and not an outcome.
Frequently asked questions
Is Alberta's independence referendum binding?
No. Crypto Briefing reported that Alberta held a nonbinding referendum on whether to remain in Canada or pursue a path towards independence. Premier Danielle Smith has acknowledged the need to act if separatists win a majority, according to the outlet.
Where does Premier Danielle Smith stand on Alberta independence?
Smith has publicly backed the Remain option, according to Crypto Briefing. The outlet also reported that she's acknowledged the need to act if separatists win a majority, though it didn't say what that action would involve.
