The federal Conservative party has initiated a drive to mobilize their supporters to vote in favor of staying within Canada during the upcoming Alberta referendum scheduled for October 19. Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre, in a speech delivered in Calgary, emphasized the importance of unity among Albertans and highlighted that the issue lies with government policies rather than the country itself.
Dane Lloyd, an MP from the Edmonton area, has been appointed as the lead for the campaign to remain in Alberta. He expressed that the campaign aims to engage conservative Albertans by addressing their concerns about the current state of affairs. Despite the frustrations felt by Albertans towards the federal government, Lloyd emphasized that the problem is not with Canada as a whole.
The sentiment of feeling unheard and undervalued by the government persists among Albertans, even though certain steps have been taken, such as canceling the consumer carbon price and supporting resource development. Lloyd mentioned that individuals he has engaged with still consider themselves patriotic Canadians but are dissatisfied with the treatment received by the province historically.
With a surge in national pride due to ongoing trade disputes, Lloyd emphasized the importance of tapping into this patriotism to foster unity. Meanwhile, the government has appointed a senior adviser to coordinate the federal response to the Alberta referendum.
Polls indicate that a majority of Albertans prefer to remain part of Canada. Various groups advocating for the initiation of the referendum process argue that a “yes” vote could provide leverage in negotiations with Ottawa. Separatism appears to be more prevalent among right-wing factions, with considerable support stemming from backers of the United Conservative Party led by Premier Danielle Smith.
The Conservative group “Conservatives for Canada” has launched a website and social media statement to bolster their campaign. Lloyd explained that the timing of the campaign launch was strategic, aiming to engage the significant number of Conservative voters from the last election to participate in the referendum for a stronger Alberta within Canada.
Elections Alberta anticipates a high turnout for the referendum, with a record-breaking 85% voter participation rate projected. The campaign adheres to Elections Alberta’s regulations and features donation options, voting information, and volunteering opportunities prominently on its website.