With only 60 days left until Albertans vote on 10 crucial questions that could impact the province’s future, the focus is shifting towards the question of whether Alberta should remain in Canada or proceed with a second referendum on separation. This topic is gaining momentum as town halls and rallies are being organized in the upcoming days.
Both sides are racing against time to sway public opinion as the referendum approaches. Long-standing pollster Janet Brown notes that support for separatism has consistently lagged behind those in favor of staying in Canada over the past eight years, with very few remaining undecided.
The referendum campaign is now less about changing minds and more about mobilizing voters, according to Brown. Voter turnout is deemed crucial by both sides in this critical juncture.
Various groups are vying for attention in the debate, each outlining their strategies for the next phase of the campaign. Let Alberta Decide, a pro-independence group, led by Keith Wilson, plans to hold a major rally at the Alberta Legislature and focus on mobilizing support, especially in urban areas.
Forever Canadian, organized by Thomas Lukaszuk, is actively distributing campaign materials and prioritizing boosting Canadian pride over get-out-the-vote efforts. Alberta Prosperity Project/Stay Free Alberta, spearheaded by Mitch Sylvestre, is gearing up for town halls and emphasizing voter turnout.
Alberta’s Voice, under Stephen Carter, aims to launch an advertising campaign and focus on undecided voters to secure a favorable split in the referendum. The group plans to establish a campaign college to train volunteers on voter mobilization strategies.
While the referendum is just 60 days away, residents can also vote by mail, with the deadline set before 5 p.m. on Oct. 16. The province braces for a pivotal moment in its history as the countdown to the referendum continues.