Alberta Referendum Results Delayed as Voters Weigh Separatist Push
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Albertans face a longer wait for referendum results Monday after polling delays pushed back the anticipated start of reporting in a vote that could set the province on a path toward separation from Canada.
Elections Alberta said some polling stations would remain open until at least 10 p.m. Mountain Time (midnight in Toronto), two hours beyond the scheduled closing time. No results will be released until every polling station has closed.
Election officials confirmed that ballots on the separation question will be counted first, ahead of nine other questions covering immigration, provincial powers and public policy.
The referendum asks voters whether Alberta should remain part of Canada or direct the provincial government to begin the constitutional process for a future binding vote on independence. Monday's ballot does not authorize immediate separation.
Premier Danielle Smith, who called the referendum amid pressure from separatist groups, supports remaining in Canada. Prime Minister Mark Carney has also campaigned for national unity, warning of the economic uncertainty a separation process could create.
Elections Alberta said unofficial results would be released progressively as counting is completed, with all preliminary results due within 48 hours of polling stations closing.
