Former Conservative MPs Jay Hill, Leon Benoit, Val Meredith and Allan Kerpan have publicly endorsed Alberta’s upcoming October 19 referendum on separation, arguing that federal Liberal policies have long disadvantaged the province’s oil‑focused economy. the move pits a growing “leave” camp against Prime Minister Pierre Poilievre’s “remain” campaign, highlighting a stark partisan split in the province.

Jay Hill’s Maverick Appeal to the “Leave” Camp

Jay Hill, who served as House Leader and chief whip under former Prime Minister Stephen Harper, said he would be ready to campaign for the “leave” side if asked, urging a “rational, fact‑based debate” on Alberta’s future. Hill, now a Calgary resident and former head of the defunct Maverick Party, argues that the province’s grievances will never be resolved within Canada. According to the source, Hill emphasized that the debate should avoid “exaggerated claims from either camp.”

Polling Shows 57% of United Conservative Voters Favor Separation

Janet Brown Opinion Research reports that while only 27% of all Albertans currently back secession, a clear majority of United Conservative Party supporters—57%—are in favour, contrasted with 98% of NDP voters opposing it. The data, cited by the source, underscores how the referendum has become a litmus test for partisan identity as much as for policy grievances.

Federal Energy Policies Cited as Core Grievances

Separatists point to Liberal‑led pipeline restrictions, carbon pricing and stricter environmental regulations as deliberate attacks on Alberta’s oil, gas, mining, forestry and agriculture sectors.. The source notes that former MPs argue Alberta is a net contributor to federal coffers, sending more revenue to Ottawa than it receives, while provinces like Quebec benefit from transfer payments and oppose Alberta’s energy projects.

Pierre Poilievre Leads “Remain” Campaign From Rural Alberta

Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre, whose riding lies in rural Alberta, has pledged to campaign for the “remain” side, countering the separatist narrative. As reported, Poilievre’s stance reflects the national party’s effort to keep the province within the federation despite growing regional discontent.

Who Will Actually Vote on the Binding Question?

The referendum question, crafted by Premier Danielle Smith, asks whether Alberta should begin the constitutional process for a binding vote on independence. The source explains that the wording is deliberately cautious, aiming to gauge sentiment before any legal steps are taken. What remains unclear is whether the federal government will recognize the outcome or intervene, a point the source leaves unanswered.