Federal Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre called on Albertans to vote in favour of remaining in Canada as the province held its referendum on potential independence Monday. Speaking in Wainwright, Alberta, Poilievre expressed hope that the results would reinforce national unity and help bridge political divisions. While acknowledging the frustrations of Albertans who support separation, he emphasized that the referendum should not be viewed as a contest between opposing sides but as an opportunity to strengthen the country.
Poilievre also defended the United Conservative Party government’s decision to include referendum questions addressing immigration policies, health-care fees for certain newcomers and education eligibility. He argued that immigration levels must be managed to ensure public services remain sustainable, rejecting accusations that the provincial government was unfairly blaming immigrants for population pressures. Instead, he attributed the challenges to federal Liberal immigration policies and maintained that immigration levels remained too high despite recent reductions.
Addressing the possibility of a defeat for the separatist movement, Poilievre encouraged independence supporters to work toward improving Canada rather than abandoning their political aspirations entirely. Although several separatist leaders have indicated they intend to continue pursuing independence regardless of the outcome, public opinion polls have consistently shown strong support for remaining in Canada. Poilievre made the remarks while visiting Wainwright to support the community following a devastating grass fire near CFB Wainwright that claimed the lives of four soldiers.
