AP: Alberta voters back remaining in Canada in referendum, unofficial results show

Voters in Alberta overwhelmingly backed remaining in Canada in Monday's referendum, The Associated Press reported on October 20, with 75% supporting staying in unofficial results.

With more than 1.8 million votes counted and results reported from 84% of voting areas and locations, AP said 75% of voters supported remaining in Canada and 25% backed beginning a process toward separation, according to unofficial results from Elections Alberta.

The referendum was not a direct vote on independence. AP said approval would have set Alberta on a path toward a future vote on separation from Canada.

Prime Minister Mark Carney said: "Albertans made a clear choice. They chose unity, to build together, and to take care of each other. Above all, Albertans chose Canada."

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith, who called the referendum amid pressure from separatists within her governing United Conservative Party despite opposing independence, posted on social media: "Albertans have voted for a stronger Alberta in a united Canada." AP said she would address the province on Tuesday evening.

Separatist leaders said the movement will continue. Jeff Rath of the Alberta Prosperity Project said: "We're not going anywhere." Keith Wilson, a leader of the separatist movement, said: "We don't have the final results. I think the numbers are going to fluctuate, but it is fair to say that at least a quarter of Albertans feel that Alberta needs to be treated better."

AP said results were delayed after late openings forced more than 100 polling stations to extend voting hours on Monday.