Alberta votes on first-ever referendum touching separation from Canada
What's next: Unofficial results are expected within 48 hours, and a majority could start the legal path to a binding vote.
Alberta voters are casting ballots in a nonbinding referendum that, for the first time, asks whether the province should remain in Canada or begin the legal process toward a binding separation vote. Polls cited by local media have shown about 70% of Albertans want to stay in Canada, while roughly a quarter back independence. Premier Danielle Smith added the question after months of pressure from separatist activists who argue Ottawa has held back the oil-rich province and benefits from Alberta's energy wealth. The ballot also includes nine other questions on immigration, provincial services and voter ID. Elections Alberta plans to count the separation question first and post unofficial results online within 48 hours after polls close.