Albertans voted overwhelmingly to stay in Canada on Monday in a historic referendum vote.
In early returns, about three in four Albertans said yes to Confederation, while about one in four said they wanted the province to hold a second, binding referendum on leaving.
The separation question was one of 10 put to Albertans. The other nine focused on immigration and the Constitution.
Here’s what some Canadian leaders are saying.
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“Thank you, Alberta! I’m very pleased to see the initial results from Elections Alberta show widespread support for remaining in Canada. Albertans have voted for a stronger Alberta in a united Canada.
“Thank you to all Albertans who took time to vote on these critically important referendum questions.”
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith
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“It’s a great day for Canada … I’m thrilled that Albertans have chosen unity. They’ve chosen to build together. They’ve chosen to continue to take care of each other, to move forward together with purpose, high ambition.
“I’d like to thank all of the volunteers who supported the election, of course those who campaigned on all sides, the electoral volunteers who were still counting some of the votes, above all, Albertans for turning out in numbers, participating in the democratic process.”
Prime Minister Mark Carney
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“At a time when our country is under threat and when we need to come together as Canadians, this result represents a clear rejection of the politics of division.
“Well over one million Albertans came together to give us something all too rare these days: a moment of hope.
“We know things are tough in Alberta, from health care to the cost of living, to the embattled education system and so much more … But as so many Albertans have shown us, we don’t fix our problems by turning on each other.”
NDP Leader Avi Lewis
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“Canada is stronger with Alberta as part of it, and last night’s results show the overwhelming majority of Albertans agree with this. Many Nova Scotians have strong ties to Alberta, either having worked there or with friends and family going to their province to help build up their industry.
“Here in Nova Scotia, we’ll keep doing our part to develop our own natural resources, create opportunities and contribute to a stronger Canada.”
Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston
This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 20, 2026.
Copyright 2026, The Canadian Press. All rights reserved.