Alberta voters favor staying in Canada as separation debate gains ground

Floyd Brenz., Philippine Canadian Inquirer
September 02, 2026

Photo Courtesy: The Canadian Press

CANADA – A majority of Albertans still want to remain part of Canada, but support for a future separation referendum shows the province’s deep political divide.

A Research Co. poll found that 74 percent of respondents would vote to remain in Canada, while 22 percent would support starting the legal process for a binding referendum on Alberta’s separation.

Research Co. president Mario Canseco said Albertans appear to be “very set in their ways,” with the results showing that opinions on the issue remain firmly entrenched.

Support for beginning the process of a binding separation vote is highest among Albertans aged 35 to 54, at 27 percent. It falls to 20 percent among those aged 55 and older and 18 percent among those aged 18 to 34.

The referendum is set for October 19 and will ask voters whether the provincial government should begin the legal process to hold a binding vote on whether Alberta should leave Canada.

While the poll shows separation remains a minority position, the level of support highlights the continuing strength of the movement and the political tensions surrounding Alberta’s relationship with the federal government.

With the vote approaching, the results suggest the separation question may not disappear even if Albertans ultimately choose to remain in Canada.