Want to boost Albertans’ support for leaving CPP? Ask the question differently

The recent Liberal victory in Alberta has sparked a surge in anti-Ottawa sentiment in the province. However, amidst this wave of discontent, there seems to be a shift in public opinion regarding the Canada Pension Plan (CPP). A new survey commissioned by Premier Danielle Smith’s government suggests that a majority of Albertans now support the idea of replacing the CPP with an Alberta Pension Plan (APP).

The survey, conducted by pollster Janet Brown’s Trend Research and obtained by a Postmedia writer, indicates that 55 percent of Albertans are in favor of an APP. This is a significant increase from previous polls, which showed much lower levels of support for such a move. However, as Brown points out, the wording of the question in the government-commissioned survey may have influenced the results.

Unlike previous polls that asked a straightforward question about creating a new provincial pension plan, the government’s survey included a caveat that the APP would guarantee all Alberta seniors the same or better benefits than the CPP. This added assurance of no financial risk for pensioners could have swayed respondents towards supporting the APP.

Brown also highlighted another unique aspect of the survey, which offered respondents the option to say they needed more information before making a decision. In this three-option format, 42 percent expressed support for the APP, while 22 percent said they needed more information.

The survey also touched on other contentious issues, such as replacing the RCMP with a provincial police force, having the Alberta government collect provincial taxes instead of the Canada Revenue Agency, and taking control of provincial immigration. These questions align with Smith’s long-standing goal of increasing provincial autonomy from Ottawa.

As Smith considers putting some of these issues to a provincial referendum in 2026, the survey results could provide valuable insights into public opinion. By framing the questions in a way that emphasizes the benefits and minimizes the risks of provincial independence, the government may be able to garner more support for its proposals.

Ultimately, the survey results suggest that Albertans are open to exploring alternative arrangements to the current federal system. Whether this translates into tangible policy changes remains to be seen, but the growing sentiment of dissatisfaction with Ottawa could pave the way for a new era of provincial autonomy in Alberta.