Danielle Smith is now Alberta’s 19th premier..On Tuesday, at 11 a.m. Smith was sworn in by Lieutenant Governor Salma Lakhani to lead the province.."As His Majesty the King's representative, I welcome Danielle Smith to her new role as the 19th premier of Alberta. So I'm the 19th Lieutenant Governor swearing in the 19th premier," Lakhani said.."Miss Smith, as premier you will work with executive council, the Legislative Assembly and members of the public service to make decisions that shape the opportunity and the quality of life enjoyed by all Albertans I trust that you will bring the best of your abilities to the task ahead. And I thank you for your willingness to serve our province and its people.".Lakhani then congratulated Smith, her family members and volunteers for a successful leadership campaign. ."Best wishes as you assume very important responsibilities in the role as premier and thank you to all who serve the people of Alberta.".Lakhani then officially accepted the resignation of former premier Jason Kenney and began to read the oath to Smith.."I Marlena Danielle Smith here to promise and affirm that I will do my skill and execute trust from the standpoint of executive council and Minister of Intergovernmental Relations for the province of Alberta, I solemnly affirm," Smith said.."I promise that our government will govern with equality, inclusivity, diversity and acceptance," Smith said..The premier chairs cabinet and chooses Alberta's cabinet ministers, who are in charge of specific ministries.."I do not take these responsibilities lightly," Smith said..Smith claimed victory Thursday night at the UCP leadership race. On Friday she held her first caucus meeting to talk and collaborate and, just two days, later she announced another campaign.."I want to invite every Canadian to partner with Alberta. We can work together to be unified Canada, we know we can be a Canada where our provinces work together and empower one another to reach our unique individual goals and aspirations. Together we can be the solution to the world's energy crisis provide affordable energy to those in need, and do so while providing the most environmentally responsible energy to our fellow Canadians," Smith said during her acceptance speech..On Saturday, Smith held a press conference in Medicine Hat with former MLA Michaela Frey to announce her intention to run in a by-election for the vacant seat in Alberta’s Legislative Assembly..Smith will hold a press conference at 2 p.m. today to answer questions from media..More to come...
