Let’s be clear: there is zero chance that Alberta’s premier will alter, postpone or cancel the Oct. 19 referendum.

That’s not to say that concerns over the referendum are misplaced. Those who wish to hold Danielle Smith’s government accountable for foisting this upon us will have their opportunity next year. In the meantime, there’s still a need to show up on referendum day.

To that end, calls to scrap the vote could backfire. If the referendum is perceived to have an air of illegitimacy, that could affect turnout. Given the stakes, that would be less than ideal.

Your weekday lunchtime roundup of curated links, news highlights, analysis and features.

There was an error, please provide a valid email address.

By signing up you consent to receive the above newsletter from Postmedia Network Inc.

A welcome email is on its way. If you don't see it, please check your junk folder.

The next issue of Noon News Roundup will soon be in your inbox.

We encountered an issue signing you up. Please try again

Interested in more newsletters? Browse here.

It is unfortunate that this vote is occurring against a backdrop of Canada defending its sovereignty amid trade aggression from the United States. This gives the Americans further opportunity to create division within Canada. Even the scope and nature of the latest U.S. tariffs hint at such a strategy.

But as much as this separation vote seems ill-advised amid a trade war, this could ultimately benefit the federalist cause. There is one large caveat, though —........

© Calgary Herald