Alberta Rejects Steps Toward an Independence Referendum

Alberta voters have rejected a proposal to begin a process toward a future independence referendum, with preliminary results showing about 76% backed remaining in Canada. The nonbinding vote did not decide whether Alberta would separate from the country; it asked whether the province should take steps that could lead to a later, binding referendum. With about 1.2 million votes counted, the stay-in-Canada side had roughly 76% support, and the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation projected its victory. One account said the projection came when 48% of ballots had been counted. Counting was still underway in the reports, and no final certified tally was provided. Premier Danielle Smith, who supported remaining in Canada, welcomed the initial results. She said Albertans had voted for a stronger Alberta in a united Canada. Prime Minister Mark Carney also praised the result, saying Albertans had chosen unity and to build together. Separatist organizers said they would wait for all votes to be counted before conceding. Keith Wilson, a leader of the Let Alberta Decide group, had said before the results that the movement would continue. The preliminary outcome therefore does not establish...