A new Ipsos poll conducted for Global News reveals that support for Alberta separating from Canada has dropped significantly, from 28 percent in January to just 18 percent currently. The decline comes as the realities of secession—including enormous costs, national and Indigenous opposition, and Premier Danielle Smith's firm stance for Canada—become more apparent.
Support for referendum also fading
The poll indicates that only 19 percent of Albertans would vote for a future binding referendum on separation, with support lowest in Calgary at 14 percent. Edmonton shows 18 percent support, while rural areas are highest at 27 percent. However, even rural separatism remains far from a majority.
UCP voters divided
Contrary to earlier assumptions, the poll finds that 50 percent of United Conservative Party supporters would vote to stay in Canada, compared to 41 percent who would leave. Among undecided voters, 76 percent favor staying. Additionally, 90 percent of "stay" voters say their decision is definite, while only 70 percent of "leave" supporters are firm.
The leak of personal election data of nearly three million Alberta voters may also be harming the separatist cause, as it highlights reckless actions by some leaders.
Elsewhere in Canada, 60 percent of respondents believe the rest of the country should have a say in any Alberta separation. Another poll by Leger suggests the debate is shifting voter support away from the UCP.
