The federal Conservative party has initiated a drive to actively involve their backers and urge them to vote in favor of remaining part of Canada in the imminent Alberta referendum. Scheduled for October 19, Albertans will determine whether to persist as a province or initiate the legal steps for a binding referendum on separation from the nation.
During a speech in Calgary this past summer, Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre implored Albertans to stand united, emphasizing that the issue lies not with Canada but with the current Liberal government. Poilievre stressed the necessity for revised government policies in Ottawa rather than seeking a separate nation within Alberta.
Dane Lloyd, Member of Parliament for the Edmonton region, has been appointed as the lead for the campaign supporting the decision to remain in Canada. Lloyd emphasized that the campaign aims to engage conservative Albertans by acknowledging the need for change while maintaining loyalty to Canada.
Despite recent federal government actions like canceling the consumer carbon price and collaborating with Alberta on resource development, Lloyd noted a prevailing sentiment among Albertans that their voices and values are being disregarded. He cited a historical sense of neglect by federal administrations, except during the tenure of former Prime Minister Stephen Harper’s Conservative government.
In light of growing national pride amidst trade disputes with the United States, Lloyd emphasized the importance of fostering patriotism and engaging the public positively. The government has appointed Morgan Breitkreutz as a senior adviser to facilitate the federal response to the Alberta referendum earlier this year.
Polls indicate a strong inclination among Albertans to remain part of Canada, with advocacy groups advocating for a yes vote to potentially leverage negotiations with Ottawa. Notably, separatist sentiments primarily align with right-wing ideologies, garnering significant support from backers of the United Conservative Party led by Premier Danielle Smith.
The Conservative campaign, which includes a dedicated website, was launched in anticipation of the referendum vote, aiming to mobilize the conservative voter base for a robust turnout. Elections Alberta has reported a surge in mail-in ballot requests, with an expected record-breaking voter turnout of up to 85 percent, reflecting heightened public engagement in the referendum process.
Lloyd affirmed that the grassroots campaign adheres to Elections Alberta’s guidelines and provides resources for donation, voting instructions, and volunteering opportunities on their campaign website.