Northern Albertans, particularly rural voters, have shown stronger support for separation, although the referendum results are not yet finalized. The Central Peace-Notley region, encompassing Fox Creek and Valleyview, recorded the highest backing for Option 2, which proposes a second binding referendum on separation, at 50.4%. Robert Willing, the reeve of the Municipal District of Peace in the Peace River riding, expressed disillusionment with the federal government in the area, with 42.5% of voters leaning towards separation.
Willing highlighted a perceived disconnect between Alberta and the federal government, particularly in the context of the oil and gas industry. He noted past reluctance from Ottawa to construct a pipeline through Alberta to the West Coast, which some locals viewed as a slight against the province. Willing commended Prime Minister Mark Carney for his actions, especially in relation to the proposed Pacific Link pipeline, which has bolstered Carney’s reputation among oil and gas-dependent regions in Alberta.
In Grande Prairie, where support for separation stands at 37.5%, Mayor Jackie Clayton linked the sentiment to rural Albertans’ dissatisfaction with Ottawa’s treatment of the province. Business owner Robin Coward, despite his disappointment with the referendum results, acknowledged and respected Albertans’ decision, emphasizing the importance of voicing discontent through the referendum.
Coward advocated for Alberta to have more autonomy within Canada, drawing parallels to Quebec’s status. Chief Sheldon Sunshine of Sturgeon Lake Cree Nation expressed little surprise at the pro-Canada vote in Alberta, considering the referendum largely unnecessary. Sunshine highlighted the significant turnout in the nation’s sole polling place, reflecting high engagement in the referendum among First Nations across the province.
Urban centers in Alberta overwhelmingly favored staying in Canada, with most ridings exceeding 80% support for Option 1. Notable exceptions included Edmonton-West Henday at 82.2% and Calgary-South East at 76.7%. Full referendum results are anticipated to be released on Wednesday evening.