Alberta government launches $4M campaign urging voters to stay in Canada before October referendum
The province is spending $4 million on TV, radio, online and billboard ads ahead of the October 19 separation vote, with Premier Smith backing a pro-Canada stance.
The day's top stories, food & events — every morning at 7. Unsubscribe anytime.
Alberta's government launched a $4 million advertising campaign Thursday urging citizens to vote to keep the province in Canada, ahead of the October 19 referendum that will pose ten questions to voters.
The ads run online, on television and radio, and on billboards. Premier Danielle Smith supports keeping the country together. "It's time to put the issue to rest once and for all in Alberta," she told media.
Nine of the ten referendum questions focus on immigration and constitutional issues. Question 10 asks whether Alberta should remain in Canada or hold a second, binding referendum on separation.
The government says it is important Albertans understand what is at stake. Smith's office frames the campaign as a direct counter to the separation movement's messaging as the vote draws closer.
HighOnCity reported in July that Elections Alberta had clarified what counts as referendum advertising ahead of the separation vote. The Federal Conservatives launched their own pro-Canada campaign in early September. Alberta separatists formally launched their 'Let Alberta Decide' campaign in June.
The source material does not specify total spending by pro-Canada opposition groups or separation advocates in the province ahead of the October 19 vote.
The facts
How much is Alberta spending on this pro-Canada campaign?
$4 million on television, radio, online, and billboard advertising.
How many questions will the referendum pose to voters?
Ten questions, with nine focusing on immigration and constitutional issues and the tenth asking whether Alberta should remain in Canada or hold a binding separation referendum.
What is Premier Danielle Smith's position on Alberta's place in Canada?
Premier Smith supports keeping Alberta in Canada and launched this campaign to counter the separation movement's messaging.
Ongoing coverage · Alberta Separation Referendum Coverage
