The Conservative Party has initiated a drive to mobilize their followers and urge them to vote to remain part of Canada in the upcoming Alberta referendum scheduled for October 19. Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre, speaking in Calgary, emphasized the importance of unity among Albertans and pointed out that the real issue lies in government policies rather than the country itself.
Dane Lloyd, MP for Edmonton, has been appointed to lead the campaign advocating to stay in Canada. He highlighted the need for change in the current state of affairs but clarified that the underlying concern is not with Canada but with the federal government’s treatment of Alberta.
Despite recent gestures by the Liberal government, including canceling the consumer carbon price and engaging with Alberta on resource development, Albertans still feel unheard and undervalued. Lloyd emphasized that while Albertans consider themselves patriotic Canadians, they are dissatisfied with past federal administrations, except for the Conservatives under former Prime Minister Stephen Harper.
In response to the referendum, the government has appointed a senior adviser for Alberta to coordinate the federal approach. Polls indicate that a majority of Albertans wish to remain part of Canada, with some groups advocating for leveraging a “yes” vote to negotiate with Ottawa.
Separatism appears to be more prevalent among right-wing supporters, particularly within the United Conservative Party led by Premier Danielle Smith. Poilievre reiterated the Conservative Party’s commitment to promoting Canadian unity in Alberta, and a campaign website has been launched to support this cause.
With expectations of high voter turnout for the referendum, the grassroots campaign aims to engage Conservative voters to participate in the decision-making process. The campaign website provides resources on voting procedures and volunteering opportunities while complying with Elections Alberta regulations.