Smith says voters’ ability to fix errors in mail-in ballot packages show system works

Edmonton – Alberta Premier Danielle Smith has stated that the provincial election authority’s assistance in helping voters correct errors in approximately 3,000 mail-in ballot packages demonstrates that the system is functioning as intended. This issue arose after Elections Alberta reported that these ballots were returned with missing declaration forms or other errors, including the absence of necessary identification copies.

During an unrelated press conference on Wednesday, Smith remarked that electors' ability to rectify the required documents in time for their vote to be counted signifies that Elections Alberta is handling the situation as expected. "I think that’s a sign the system works," she said. Both Smith and Elections Alberta noted that the problematic ballot packages account for a mere 1.2 percent of the roughly 250,000 returned.

Albertans will cast their votes on October 19 on various questions, including whether to remain part of Canada or initiate the process for a binding referendum to leave the country. Maia Hanrahan from Elections Alberta stated in an email that they have contacted those with problematic packages and are assisting voters in making the necessary corrections.

"Similar to an in-person voting experience where an election officer would assist the elector in ensuring their information is correct and complete, that is what is happening with these special ballots – we are assisting electors in correcting their errors," Hanrahan wrote. Voters can submit the necessary information via email, but if they fail to do so, their special ballots will be rejected.

As of now, many individuals have responded and provided the required information. This report by The Canadian Press was originally published on October 7, 2026.