Carney Urges Alberta Unity Before Separation Vote

Prime Minister Mark Carney urged Albertans to remain part of Canada on Monday, Oct. 12, 2026, as the province prepared to vote Oct. 19 on whether to begin a referendum process on separation, warning the move could create prolonged uncertainty.

In a Thanksgiving message, Carney said the decision would affect Alberta’s future and argued national projects require cooperation between the province and federal government.

"This year, Thanksgiving is a bit different," said Mark Carney, Prime Minister of Canada.

Carney followed that message by outlining the upcoming Alberta vote and the possible consequences of beginning a separation process.

"A week from today, Albertans will have the opportunity to make an important decision about their future, whether to remain part of Canada or begin a long and uncertain process through which Alberta could separate from Canada." said Mark Carney, Prime Minister of Canada.

According to Carney, Alberta can pursue major infrastructure and economic projects within Canada. He highlighted a proposed West Coast pipeline, new housing and high-speed rail as examples of federal cooperation.

"Canada is working." said Mark Carney, Prime Minister of Canada.

Carney said his government is focused on building projects while facing pressure from trade tensions and concerns about Canada's sovereignty.

"Truth is, we can't achieve any of this if we're divided. You can't build big things on fault lines." said Mark Carney, Prime Minister of Canada.

Carney also addressed broader national challenges during the holiday message and said unity was necessary as Canada responds to economic and security issues.

"real threats to our economy, to our security, to our way of life," said Mark Carney, Prime Minister of Canada.

The prime minister continued his appeal by emphasizing cooperation between provinces and the federal government.

"We have to be strong and we are stronger together." said Mark Carney, Prime Minister of Canada.

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith called the vote but supports remaining in Canada. According to the source, she said polling showed separation support at roughly 22%, a level she considered too high.

"still too high for my liking." said Danielle Smith, Alberta Premier.

Smith's position contrasts with independence activists who want the vote to advance toward a future separation referendum.

Keith Wilson, a leader of the Alberta independence movement, argued the province needs greater leverage in negotiations with Ottawa. He referenced the need for "leverage and lasting change" in Alberta's dealings with the federal government.

"What protects us when Ottawa turns against Alberta again?" wrote Keith Wilson, Alberta independence movement leader.

The Oct. 19 vote would not immediately make Alberta independent. According to the source, a 1998 Supreme Court ruling found provinces cannot leave Canada unilaterally and negotiations with the federal government would be required.