The federal Conservative party has initiated a drive to mobilize their backers and urge them to vote in favor of retaining Alberta’s status within Canada during the upcoming referendum in the province. Scheduled for October 19, Albertans will decide whether to uphold their provincial status or pursue the necessary steps for a binding referendum on potential secession.
Addressing a crowd in Calgary earlier this summer, Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre emphasized the importance of unity among Albertans and asserted that separatist sentiments are not directed towards Canada but rather towards the current Liberal government. Emphasizing the need for a change in government policies in Ottawa, Poilievre stated, “We don’t need a different country in Alberta, we need different government policies in Ottawa.”
Dane Lloyd, an MP from the Edmonton area, has been appointed as the lead for the pro-unity campaign within the Conservative caucus. Lloyd highlighted the campaign’s focus on engaging conservative Albertans with a message that acknowledges the need for change while reaffirming their allegiance to Canada.
Despite recent actions by the federal government, including the cancellation of the consumer carbon price and initiatives to promote resource development, Albertans still feel overlooked and their values disregarded, according to Lloyd. While maintaining their identity as patriotic Canadians, many individuals express frustration over historical treatment by federal administrations, with the exception of former Conservative Prime Minister Stephen Harper’s government.
Amidst growing national pride due to external factors such as the trade dispute with the United States, Lloyd stressed the importance of tapping into this patriotism to bolster unity. The government has responded by appointing a senior adviser specifically focused on Alberta to coordinate federal efforts related to the upcoming referendum.
Polling data indicates strong support among Albertans for remaining within Canada, with the majority favoring unity. Groups advocating for the initiation of the referendum process argue that a “yes” vote could provide leverage in negotiations with Ottawa. Notably, support for separatism is primarily concentrated within right-wing circles, including a significant portion of United Conservative Party supporters led by Premier Danielle Smith.
The Conservative group “Conservatives for Canada” recently launched a campaign website and issued a statement via social media. The decision to commence the campaign well ahead of the vote was motivated by the need to engage voters and ensure a strong turnout, given historical low participation rates during referendums. With Elections Alberta anticipating high turnout and a record-breaking 85% voter participation based on preliminary data, the grassroots campaign is operating within the electoral regulations.
The campaign website serves as a hub for information on voting procedures, volunteering opportunities, and features donation options prominently.