Alison Redford claimed the prize she fought for through an eight-month leadership campaign yesterday, being sworn in as Alberta's 14th premier.
Redford took the oath of office, as Alberta's first female premier, in the legislature rotunda at 11 a.m., surrounded by family, friends, her new caucus and the media.
In a nod to the education system Redford has pledged to improve, two Grade 6 students from local Edmonton schools were also on hand.
"Grade 6 is when Alberta students learn about citizenship, democracy and government so I am so glad that you are here today to see some of those principles in action."
Redford thanked her family and her campaign team for their support, including her nine-year-old daughter who was on stage.
"Sarah, who has been both supportive and wise beyond her years, I am very proud of you Sarah and I love you very much."
The new premier also alluded to her mother, who passed away just days before her victory and said she would never have achieved what she had without her mother.
Stelmach saluted
Redford also thanked her predecessor for his hard work in office and for the help he had provided to her personally.
"I want to thank someone very important, former Premier (Ed) Stelmach for his service to Alberta during some very difficult times," she said. "Premier Stelmach is a kind and honourable man and I want to thank him for the kindness that he brought to me and the honour that he brought to the office."
Allred committed
Local MLAs Doug Horner and Ken Allred were both on hand for the swearing in.
Allred, who expressed concern earlier that Redford's election would move the party left, said he has been impressed with Redford's early moves and her commitment to fiscal conservatism.
Allred has said he is unsure if he will run again, but said his commitment to the Progressive Conservative party is absolute.
"I am committed to the party. I am committed to Alison."
Allred said the important part now is for the party to come together.
"When it is all over everybody rallies behind the leader."
