The federal Conservative party has initiated a drive to mobilize their backers and urge them to vote in favor of staying within Canada during the upcoming Alberta referendum scheduled for October 19.

Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre, speaking in Calgary earlier this year, emphasized the importance of unity among Albertans and pointed out that the issue lies not with Canada but with the current Liberal government. He stressed the need for revised government policies in Ottawa rather than seeking a separate country for Alberta.

Dane Lloyd, an MP from the Edmonton area, has been appointed as the lead for the campaign advocating to remain part of Canada. Lloyd highlighted the campaign’s focus on engaging conservative Albertans and addressing the need for change while maintaining a strong connection with Canada.

Despite recent government actions such as canceling the consumer carbon price and supporting Alberta’s resource development, many Albertans still feel unheard and undervalued by federal authorities, according to Lloyd. He noted that while Albertans consider themselves patriotic Canadians, they are dissatisfied with the historical treatment of the province by past federal governments.

In response to the referendum, the government has assigned a senior adviser, Morgan Breitkreutz, to oversee the federal approach to the Alberta situation. Polls indicate a majority of Albertans wish to stay within Canada, with various groups advocating for a referendum to gain leverage with the federal government.

Separatism tendencies are predominantly found on the right side of the political spectrum, with significant support for separation coming from backers of the United Conservative Party led by Danielle Smith. Poilievre reiterated the Conservative party’s commitment to promoting Canadian unity in Alberta.

The Conservatives for Canada organization has launched a website and social media campaign ahead of the referendum to encourage voter engagement. Campaign lead Lloyd emphasized the importance of rallying Conservative supporters to ensure a strong turnout and secure a brighter future for Alberta within a united Canada.

Elections Alberta is anticipating a high voter turnout, with a record-breaking 85% expected based on the significant number of requests for mail-in ballots. The grassroots campaign led by Lloyd is operating in compliance with Elections Alberta’s guidelines and aims to provide information on voting procedures and volunteer opportunities through its website.