Albertans began voting on Monday, October 19, on whether the provincial government should start the legal process for a future binding referendum on separation.
The non-binding ballot question has brought Canadian unity into focus. The vote is not a decision to leave Canada. Even if voters choose the process option, Alberta would not become independent, and further legal and political steps would follow.
The separation question is one of 10 on the provincial ballot. The other nine questions concern immigration, access to public services, and possible constitutional changes. More than 1.35 million people had already voted in advance or by special ballot, representing about 43 percent of eligible voters, according to Elections Alberta figures reported by Global News.
Polling before election day suggested most Albertans preferred to remain in Canada, while roughly one in five supported separation. The campaign has drawn on long-running western alienation and complaints about federal policies, including disputes over energy and provincial autonomy. Premier Danielle Smith, who has said she favours Alberta staying in a united Canada, argued the question should be put to voters.
Prime Minister Mark Carney urged Albertans to keep the province in Canada during a visit to Edmonton ahead of the vote. Voting was still underway in Monday's reports, with results expected after polls close.