Elections Alberta has initiated the distribution of special ballots for the upcoming fall referendum. Jennifer Maskoske, the Director of elections operations, revealed to CBC News that a total of 230,000 requests for special ballots have been processed. This figure significantly surpasses the 59,589 special ballots requested for the 2023 provincial election, which itself was more than double the requests received before the 2019 election.
The special ballots enable individuals to cast their votes on all 10 referendum questions via mail, bypassing the need to visit polling stations. These ballots encompass inquiries on immigration, the Constitution, and whether Alberta should conduct a second binding referendum on separation from Canada.
Unlike previous years, there is no longer a legislative mandate for electors to provide a reason for opting for a mail-in ballot. According to Maskoske in an interview with CBC’s Edmonton AM, there is now no necessity to justify requesting a special ballot.
For Albertans interested in participating in the October 19 referendum ahead of time, an online application for the special ballot can be completed on the Elections Alberta website. The deadline for submitting an online application is October 9 by 5 p.m. All completed special ballot packages must reach Elections Alberta by mail before 5 p.m. on October 16. Electors voting by mail are required to sign a declaration and include identification to verify their name and address within the package. Special ballot packages will not be accepted at returning offices.
Additionally, advance voting will be accessible from October 13 to 17 to accommodate early voting preferences.