Fact check: Did Alberta vote to become independent

1. Summary of the results

Alberta has not voted to become independent. This is a clear-cut case where multiple sources confirm no such vote has taken place. Recent polling shows that only 36% of Albertans support separation, with just 19% saying they would "definitely" vote to leave ^[1]. In fact, a more recent May 1 poll indicates even lower support, with 9 out of 10 Albertans opposing separation ^[2].

2. Missing context/alternative viewpoints

Several important contextual elements need to be considered:

• A potential referendum might occur in 2026 if certain conditions are met:
• The threshold for triggering a referendum has been lowered to 177,000 signatures (about 3.5% of Alberta's population) ^[3]
• Premier Danielle Smith has stated she would respect a democratic process if enough signatures are gathered ^[2]
• The referendum would be included on the 2026 provincial ballot if requirements are met ^[2]
• Current political stance:
• Premier Smith has explicitly stated she does not personally support separation ^[2]
• She emphasized that "Albertans have always been loyal, proud, and generous Canadians" ^[2]
• A counter-group called "Forever Canada" has filed a petition asking Albertans if they want to remain in Canada ^[4]

3. Potential misinformation/bias in the original statement

The question appears to stem from deliberate misinformation:

• This claim originated from a dubious article by Cowboy State Daily, which has since been retracted and clarified ^[5]
• Even separatist movement leaders acknowledge that winning such a referendum would require massive public support, which currently does not exist ^[3]
• Three-quarters of Albertans expect a referendum would fail if held ^[1]

The spread of this misinformation benefits:

• Separatist groups seeking to create an impression of greater support than actually exists
• Media outlets seeking engagement through controversial headlines
• Political actors who might use separation fears to negotiate better terms with the federal government within the existing framework of Canadian federalism