Despite the close results in two ridings, most rural communities voted against another referendum. / UNSPLASH PHOTO
While most Albertans voted overwhelmingly to remain in Canada in the Oct. 19 referendum, two rural ridings narrowly supported holding another vote on independence, highlighting frustrations over political representation and economic uncertainty.
In Rimbey-Rocky Mountain House-Sundre, 51.1 per cent of voters backed a second, binding referendum on separation. In northwestern Alberta's Central Peace-Notley riding, support reached 50.7 per cent.
Provincewide, more than 76 per cent voted to remain in Canada, with opposition to another referendum strongest in Edmonton.
For Ponoka County reeve Paul McLauchlin, the results reflect growing frustration among rural residents who feel disconnected from political decision-making.
“They feel like they’re not being represented, and that’s what the attitude in this whole region is, is that they don’t feel that they have a voice in Edmonton, a voice in Ottawa,” McLauchlin told CTV News Edmonton.
“They believe that they’re being lost in this new economy. They’re being left behind. Their way of life is being attacked, and so you got to pay attention to that.”
Despite the close results in those two ridings, most rural communities voted against another referendum.
“In almost every area of the province, there is more support for remaining than there is for the second referendum,” Mount Royal University political scientist Lori Williams told the Calgary Herald.
Williams cautioned that supporting another referendum did not necessarily mean supporting independence, suggesting some voters wanted to send Ottawa a message about improving federal-provincial relations.
Prime Minister Mark Carney in response said: “It's a great result for Canada. I'm thrilled that Albertans have chosen unity.”
He added: “They've chosen to build together. They've chosen to continue to take care of each other, to move forward together with purpose, high ambition.”
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith said that she would “honour” the result and not call another referendum during her time in office.
“It is time to move forward together as a strong and free Alberta within a united Canada,” she said.
To those that voted for a binding referendum, Smith said: “I acknowledge the legitimate frustrations you felt, most especially during the Justin Trudeau Liberal-NDP coalition years. Make no mistake, you, along with your fellow Albertans who voted to remain, have had a tremendous effect on helping alter the direction of Canada for the better.”
