Ex-former political adversaries Rachel Notley and Jason Kenney presented their case for Alberta’s continued inclusion in Canada at a private gathering among Edmonton’s business community. Following years of political rivalry, the past Alberta premiers are now collaborating as co-chairs of a campaign named Alberta and Canada: Stronger Together. They addressed a forum hosted by the Edmonton Chamber of Commerce on Tuesday.
Notley served as Alberta’s NDP premier from 2015 to 2019 until the United Conservative Party (UCP) took office, with Kenney assuming the role of premier. He held this position until stepping down in 2022. During the forum, Notley, Kenney, and chamber president Doug Griffiths discussed the implications of the Oct. 19 referendum, which includes a question on whether Alberta should maintain its status as part of Canada or pursue a binding referendum on independence.
Kenney highlighted the potential economic impact of the referendum on the province, businesses, and long-term prosperity. He expressed strong opposition to allowing a binding referendum on independence, warning of catastrophic economic consequences if such a scenario were to unfold. Griffiths emphasized the importance of stability for businesses, expressing concerns about the destabilizing nature of the ongoing separation conversation.
Recent surveys indicate that over half of surveyed UCP supporters in Alberta favor holding a binding referendum on independence. UCP caucus member Jason Stephan confirmed his support for proceeding with a legally binding referendum on Alberta’s potential departure from Canada.
Kenney stressed the necessity for clarity within the UCP regarding its stance on separation, emphasizing the party’s commitment to Canada as outlined in its founding declaration. Notley humorously echoed Kenney’s sentiments, highlighting the unity in prioritizing patriotism over partisanship.
Both Kenney and Notley referenced polling data showing that separatist support remains a minority view among Albertans when it comes to the referendum. Kenney suggested that the separatist movement’s roots lie in evolving political dynamics, with some individuals shifting focus from pandemic-related issues to advocating for Alberta’s independence.
Kenney refrained from delving deeply into the other nine referendum questions, urging voters to focus on Question 10 regarding Alberta’s place in Canada. He encouraged voters uncertain about the additional questions to vote on Question 10 and abstain from the rest. Notley expressed hope that Albertans would reject the nine questions pertaining to immigration and constitutional matters.