The federal Conservative Party has initiated a drive to actively involve their supporters and urge them to vote for maintaining Alberta’s status within Canada in the forthcoming referendum scheduled for October 19. Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre, in a speech delivered in Calgary, emphasized the importance of unity in Alberta and pointed out that separatists are not opposed to Canada but to the current Liberal government. Dane Lloyd, a Member of Parliament from Edmonton, has been appointed to lead the campaign for remaining in Canada.
Lloyd highlighted that the campaign’s message is focused on acknowledging the need for change while affirming that the issue lies with government policies rather than the country itself. He expressed that many Albertans feel unheard and undervalued by the federal government, despite recent actions such as the cancellation of the consumer carbon price and agreements on resource development.
Polling data indicates a strong desire among Albertans to stay part of Canada, with various groups advocating for leveraging the referendum to engage with Ottawa. Notably, support for separation appears to be more prevalent among right-wing factions, including backers of Premier Danielle Smith’s United Conservative Party. The Conservatives have launched a website and social media statement to support the campaign, aiming to mobilize Conservative voters and ensure a robust turnout in the referendum.
Elections Alberta anticipates a high voter turnout for the referendum, as indicated by a significant number of requests for mail-in ballots and polling suggesting a potential record-breaking 85% turnout. The grassroots campaign adheres to Elections Alberta’s regulations and provides resources on voting procedures and volunteer opportunities on its website.