Alberta Votes to Stay in Canada, Boosts Carney’s Standing

Last week, Alberta held a referendum on whether to separate from Canada. Preliminary results show more than two‑thirds of voters chose to remain. The vote was held on a stage with "Forever Canadian" banners, according to BBC.

Prime Minister Mark Carney declared "Vote like Canada depends on it" in Calgary, according to BBC. He said Alberta voters chose unity to build together, according to BBC. Carney, a former central banker who grew up in Alberta, is now Canada’s builder‑in‑chief, according to BBC.

Thomas Lukaszuk, a former lawmaker, warned "Don't mess with Canada" in Edmonton, according to BBC. He said the vote would send a strong message to the world, according to BBC.

According to the New York Times, the referendum bolstered Carney’s political standing.

Alberta holds most of Canada’s proven oil reserves and abundant gas and mineral wealth, according to BBC. Its economic role is pivotal for Ottawa’s trade strategy, according to BBC. Foreign investors focus on infrastructure projects, according to BBC.

Some separatist leaders travelled to Washington to meet US officials, according to BBC. Carney warned that outside forces were working to break Canada, according to BBC.