What happens when a political movement convinced of its widespread support suffers an electoral defeat?
In my latest article for The Cult Following, I examine the conspiracy theories that circulated among Alberta separatist supporters following the October 19 referendum results.
Drawing on examples from Facebook, Telegram, and X, the article explores allegations involving electoral fraud, Dominion voting machines, political interference, and ineligible voters. It also considers how online echo chambers can create distorted perceptions of political support.
Central to the analysis is the concept of constructed victimhood: the process through which perceived grievances and political setbacks become evidence of persecution, reinforcing collective identity and sustaining political mobilization.`
The article situates these responses within broader patterns of conspiracy belief, anti-immigration rhetoric, institutional distrust, and far-right political movements in Canada.