Alberta: Smith rules out another separation referendum while she is premier

In her October 20 address, Danielle Smith pledged not to hold another separation referendum while she is premier. She intends to pursue disputes with Ottawa through Canadian political and legal institutions. [9]

A message to her party

On October 21, The Canadian Press reports that she is asking party members to support a pro-Canada position following the rejection of the separation process. [10]

At 6:02 a.m. Toronto time on October 20, Elections Alberta showed 1,268,546 votes to remain in Canada and 406,141 to start the process toward another referendum, out of 1,674,687 valid votes on Question 10. The count remains unofficial. [7]

Reaction to the result

CityNews reports that Danielle Smith welcomed the initial results. By late October 19, the outlet described a clear majority for remaining in Canada. [8]

Mark Carney urged Albertans to remain in Canada in Calgary on October 15, The Canadian Press reports. He warned of divisions that a move toward separation would cause. [2]

What the ballot asks

In the October 19 vote, Question 10 offered a choice between remaining in Canada and starting the legal process for a future binding separation referendum. The result of this question is not binding. [1]

Disagreement on the other questions

The Canadian Press reports that Danielle Smith says she voted to remain in Canada. She supports the other nine proposals, which Carney opposes. [2]

The scope of the vote

Those proposals address immigration, access to certain public services and constitutional changes, among other issues. The October 19 vote therefore does not itself amount to a decision on independence. [1]

When results are expected

Elections Alberta says the unofficial count must finish within 48 hours after polls close. Official results are scheduled for October 29 at 10 a.m. local time. [5]