Alberta Premier Danielle Smith’s recent statement ruling out a second referendum on separation if the remain vote prevails in the upcoming vote is facing criticism from some key Alberta separatists. Cory Morgan, leading the third-party advertiser Pathway to Independence, remarked that while Smith’s declaration may seem firm for the current campaign’s final phase, predicting such a stance indefinitely would be speculative considering future circumstances.
Smith’s announcement was made during an exclusive interview with CBC News’ chief correspondent Adrienne Arsenault. The imminent referendum on October 19 will present Albertans with the choice of either staying in Canada or initiating steps for a follow-up referendum on separation. Morgan believes Smith’s position undermines the principles of direct democracy she claims to uphold, emphasizing that she should honor any future referendum if the majority of Albertans support it.
Acknowledging the unlikelihood of another referendum if Option 2 fails, Morgan asserts that the separatist movement will persist over the next few years. Similarly, Mitch Sylvestre, CEO of the Alberta Prosperity Project, concurs with this view, expressing doubts about Smith’s stance resonating positively within her party given the significant pro-independence sentiment among its members.
A recent Janet Brown Opinion Research Poll for CBC News revealed that 53% of respondents supporting the United Conservative Party would also back the separation option in the upcoming referendum. The UCP members may have an opportunity to voice their perspectives on this matter at the party’s forthcoming annual general meeting.
With the referendum approaching, Sylvestre remains cautiously optimistic about the separatist side’s chances, believing that many potential voters are covert separatists who could influence the outcome. Morgan notes a growing interest in supporting Option 2 but acknowledges the challenges ahead in securing a majority vote for independence.
Advance polling is scheduled from October 13 to 17, while polling stations on the referendum day, October 19, will operate from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.