Alberta referendum sparks debate over coal ban and immigration reforms

A recent online survey by ThinkHQ found that 52 % of Albertans would have voted to ban new coal mining on the Eastern Slopes of the Rocky Mountains if the issue had appeared on the October referendum ballot. Support rose to 68 % among decided voters, with higher backing in Calgary (60 %) and Edmonton (55 %). Opposition was strongest in southern Alberta, where the proposed Grassy Mountain mine is located, with only 47 % in favour. The survey also showed strong partisan divides, with 85 % of NDP supporters backing a ban versus 41 % of UCP supporters opposing it.

Meanwhile, five of the nine additional referendum questions focus on immigration policy. Alberta lawyer Avnish Nanda, co‑founder of the pro‑immigration group “Our Alberta Advantage,” called the proposals “harmful, racist and unnecessary.” Premier Danielle Smith defended the measures, arguing that not every newcomer contributes financially and that the province should have greater control over immigration and related social services. The referendum also includes questions on judicial appointments, Senate abolition, provincial opt‑outs from federal programs, and constitutional changes to prioritize provincial law.