After weeks of deliberation, Premier Danielle Smith has presented her own referendum question, which is long, confusing, and contradictory. Unveiled Thursday evening in a speech to the province, the question asks Albertans whether they want to remain in Canada or proceed with a binding referendum on separation. However, the phrasing makes it impossible to vote a simple yes or no, as it combines two contradictory parts.
The Question
Smith's question reads: "Should Alberta remain a province of Canada or should the Government of Alberta commence the legal process required under the Canadian Constitution to hold a binding provincial referendum on whether or not Alberta should separate from Canada?"
This hybrid question forces voters to either agree to both parts—even though they are contradictory—or reject both, which would mean saying no to Canada while also nixing a binding referendum on separation. The logic is perplexing unless the question is divided into two separate responses.
Smith's Stance
Despite the confusing question, Smith's speech included a powerful statement against separatism. For the first time publicly, she declared she will vote against separation. "I have repeatedly stated that the position of the UCP caucus and UCP government is to build a strong and sovereign Alberta within a united Canada," she said. "I will therefore be voting for Alberta to remain in Canada."
She also highlighted progress in dealing with Ottawa, saying, "My fellow Albertans, there can be no doubt that things are a world of difference better for our province than they were under the Trudeau-NDP government." She urged federalists to avoid demonizing separatists and instead use hope and persuasion.
Reactions
The question has drawn criticism for its complexity. Thomas Lukaszuk, who previously proposed a simpler question—"Do you agree that Alberta should remain in Canada?"—saw his petition quashed by a court. Smith's version now stands, leaving many Albertans frustrated.
While Smith's pro-Canada stance is a positive step, the convoluted question may undermine the referendum's purpose. The coming weeks will reveal how Albertans respond to this puzzling ballot.
