Alberta’s separation question is ‘foggy’ and ‘confusing’, English professor says
Posted May 22, 2026 4:52 pm.
Last Updated May 22, 2026 5:20 pm.
Alberta’s referendum question on whether to proceed to a binding separation vote is drawing plenty of criticism from people on both side of the separation issue, but it’s also being called out for how it’s written.
In a televised address Thursday, Premier Danielle Smith unveiled the 37‑word question Albertans will vote on Oct. 19, asking whether the province should remain in Canada or begin the constitutional process toward a future separation referendum.
A Mount Royal University English professor was asked to break down the way the question was written. He says it’s too many words.
“I don’t believe that the question here is being posed honestly,” said professor Robert Boschman. “I believe that it’s meant to be foggy and confusing.”
The question reads: Should Alberta remain a province of Canada, or should the Government of Alberta commence the legal process required under the Canadian Constitution to hold a binding provincial referendum on whether or not Alberta should separate from Canada?
The premier’s office has confirmed the question will be presented with two checkboxes, and both options written out, as opposed to being ‘yes’ or ‘no.’
CityNews asked Calgarians on their thoughts and reactions ranged from puzzled to skeptical. One resident said the phrasing made it seem as though Alberta already intends to separate.
Another paused for several seconds before answering whether the 37 words get the point across.
“It takes a while to read through it,” she said. “I think it needs to be a little more concise.”
Since a judge’s ruling prevents Elections Alberta from validating signatures or holding a binding referendum until appeals are resolved, Smith said the new question is the only viable way to let Albertans be heard this year.
“I would grade this an F,” added Boschman. “It’s really awful. It’s an awful use of the English language.”
Smith’s new question will appear alongside nine others on the Oct. 19 ballot. The full list of questions can be found here.
