Prime Minister Mark Carney intensified his campaign against Alberta’s potential separation from Canada during a stop in Red Deer on Friday, as the province prepared for its referendum set for Monday. Addressing a crowd of predominantly older supporters, Carney emphasized the importance of national unity amid what he described as "threats to our sovereignty," underscoring recent collaborative efforts between Alberta and the federal government.
Carney highlighted several joint initiatives announced in recent months, including Alberta’s proposed Pacific Link pipeline to the West Coast, a high-speed rail link between Edmonton and Calgary, and $8 billion in military investments across provincial bases. Speaking alongside Alberta Premier Danielle Smith, Carney portrayed these projects as evidence that the province and Ottawa are working together toward shared economic goals.
Smith, who has generally advocated for greater provincial autonomy, reaffirmed her support for keeping Alberta within Canada on Question 10 of the referendum ballot. However, she maintained her government’s stance on other referendum measures, including proposals to reform immigration and restrict access to certain public services for non-permanent residents. Addressing Carney directly, Smith stated that all provincial leaders were interested in discussing immigration reforms, signaling ongoing tensions between the federal and provincial governments over these proposals.
The referendum, which includes 10 questions, asks voters whether Alberta should remain part of Canada or begin a formal process to separate. It also contemplates other issues such as immigration controls and potential constitutional changes. While some separatist leaders view the vote as a means to express discontent with Ottawa or to leverage concessions, federal and provincial figures campaigning against separation characterize the referendum as a serious decision with far-reaching consequences.
Carney cautioned voters against underestimating the complexity of separation, drawing parallels with Britain’s exit from the European Union. He warned against the notion that independence would be a simple path allowing Albertans to retain their passports, currency, or simultaneous membership in two countries.
Support for remaining in Canada appears to have grown during the campaign, according to a recent Leger poll, which indicated that 74 percent of Albertans favor staying within the federation, while only 21 percent support separation.
Political figures from across Canada engaged in last-minute campaigning, with Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre addressing Albertans in Calgary. Poilievre urged voters to reject the separation push and instead recognize common frustrations—such as immigration, affordability, and energy policy—that resonate nationwide. He emphasized unity, reminding Albertans that Canada represents more than just its government or policies.
Meanwhile, Conservative MP Dane Lloyd reported that support for separation remains stronger in rural areas but that overall sentiment leans toward unity, especially in urban centers. Former Alberta premier Jason Kenney praised Carney’s approach to the referendum, noting the prime minister’s evolving stance on energy policy and his personal connection to Alberta as factors strengthening the federalist campaign.
As advance polling continued over the weekend, approximately one-third of eligible voters had participated by Thursday night, suggesting a potentially high turnout for the decisive referendum on Monday. The outcome is expected to significantly influence Alberta’s political landscape and its relationship with the rest of Canada.