Alberta, known for its picturesque landscapes and rich history, has always been at the forefront of many progressive initiatives.

But when it comes to the modernization of its voting system, where does it stand?

One of the frequently asked questions by its residents is about the possibility of online voting. Let’s delve into the details.

Can You Vote Online in Alberta?

No, as of the current regulations and practices, Alberta does not offer online voting for its provincial or federal elections.

Voting In Person

There are four in-person voting options available to voters during the election period:

1. Election Day Voting:
   • Every elector is assigned a voting location based on their place of ordinary residence.
   • Electors may only vote at their assigned voting location.
   • All Election Day voting locations are open from 9:00 am to 8:00 pm.
   • Commonly established in schools, churches, community halls, and other public buildings.
2. Advance Voting:
   • Takes place the week before Election Day, from Tuesday through Saturday between 9:00 am and 8:00 pm.
   • Electors may choose to vote at any advance voting location.
   • Commonly established in malls, community centres, libraries, work camps, universities, and other public buildings.
3. Vote at the Returning Office:
   • If you are unable to vote on Election Day or on advance voting days due to specific reasons (e.g., physically disabled, away from their electoral division, an inmate, etc.), you may vote at the returning office for your electoral division.
   • Voting in the Returning Office is by Special Ballot.
4. Mobile Voting:
   • Some facilities are eligible to receive a mobile voting station on Election Day or during advance voting days.
   • Eligible facilities include Treatment Centres, Supportive Living Facilities, Long-term Care Facilities, Emergency Shelters, and Community Support Centres.
   • Only residents and those receiving services at the facility may vote at a mobile voting station.

Voting By Mail

• Electors may apply to vote by Special Ballot if they are unable to vote during advance voting days or on Election Day.
• Special ballots may be completed in the returning office, at Elections Alberta, picked up by a designate of the elector, or mailed to the elector.
• Requests for a Special Ballot to be mailed out can only be made until 6 pm on the Monday before advance voting commences.

Source: Elections Alberta – How to Vote

The Debate Around Online Voting

Online voting has been a topic of discussion in many jurisdictions around the world.

The primary advantages often cited include increased accessibility and potentially higher voter turnout, especially among younger demographics.

However, concerns about security, voter fraud, and the potential for technical glitches have made many governments, including Alberta’s, hesitant to fully embrace the concept.

Alberta’s Stance on Online Voting

While the idea of online voting has been explored in Alberta, the province has yet to implement such a system.

The concerns primarily revolve around ensuring the integrity of the voting process.

The Alberta government, like many others, wants to ensure that any move towards online voting doesn’t compromise the security and trustworthiness of election results.

FAQs: Online Voting in Alberta

• Why hasn’t Alberta implemented online voting?
  • The primary concerns are related to security, potential voter fraud, and technical issues that might arise.
• Are there any provinces in Canada that allow online voting?
  • Some municipalities in Canada have experimented with online voting in local elections, but no province has adopted it for provincial or federal elections.
• What are the potential benefits of online voting?
  • Increased accessibility, convenience, and potentially higher voter turnout are some of the benefits.

Online Voting: A Future Possibility?

While Alberta hasn’t adopted online voting yet, the continuous advancements in technology and cybersecurity might pave the way for its consideration in the future.

As the province evaluates the potential risks and rewards, it remains to be seen if and when online voting will become a reality for Albertans.

In Summary

• Alberta does not currently offer online voting for provincial or federal elections.
• The debate around online voting centers on its benefits and potential risks.
• Security concerns are the primary reason for not implementing online voting in Alberta.