Alberta votes to remain in Canada, rejecting push for independence referendum
Voters in Canada's oil-rich province of Alberta have overwhelmingly rejected a proposal to hold a binding referendum on separation from Canada, according to preliminary results reported by CBC News on October 20.
With counting still underway, approximately 76.5% of ballots cast favored remaining in Canada, while 23.5% supported holding another referendum on beginning the separation process.
CBC News projected a victory for the pro-Canada side shortly after polls closed on October 19.
The vote did not directly decide Alberta's independence. Instead, voters were asked whether the province should remain part of Canada or proceed toward a separate, binding referendum on secession.
The referendum was initiated by Alberta Premier Danielle Smith after separatist activists failed to secure their own vote through a petition campaign that was blocked by a court.
Smith welcomed the preliminary results, saying they demonstrated widespread support for "a stronger Alberta in a united Canada."
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney also celebrated the outcome.
"On October 19, Albertans made a clear choice. They chose unity, to build together, and to take care of each other," Carney said.
The separatist movement has attracted renewed attention amid tensions between Alberta and Canada's federal government. Earlier this year, leaders of the Alberta Prosperity Project reportedly held meetings with US State Department officials.
US President Donald Trump has also repeatedly suggested that Canada should become America's 51st state.
The October 19 vote was part of a broader provincial referendum covering ten questions, including immigration policy and constitutional powers. Counting on the other questions was still underway.
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