She said it herself: Danielle Smith is back.
The former Wildrose leader and High Riverite was elected leader of the United Conservative Party by members Thursday night, topping six other hopefuls.
Smith grabbed the lead early, with 41.3 per cent of the vote after the first round, but it took to the sixth ballot for Alberta's next premier to get to the elusive 50 per cent mark.
She ultimately captured the top spot with 53.77 per cent of the vote to edge former cabinet minister Travis Toews. Brian Jean, who was eliminated on the previous ballot, finished third.
UCP president Cynthia Moore said approximately 85,000 votes were cast in the race. There were about 120,000 party members eligible to vote.
To a roaring crowd at Calgary's BMO Centre, Smith said this is the beginning of a new chapter. She held strong on comments made throughout her campaign, including Alberta sovereignty and anti-COVID restrictions.
"No longer will Alberta ask permission from Ottawa to be prosperous and free," she said. "We will not have our voices silenced or censored. We will not be told what we must put in our bodies in order that we may work or travel.
"We will not have our resources landlocked or our energy phased out of existence by virtue signalling prime ministers. Albertans, not Ottawa, will chart our own destiny on our terms, and will work with our fellow Canadians to build the most free and prosperous country on earth."
The premier-designate thanked her fellow contestants for their hard work over the last few months, highlighting their contribution in battling the New Democratic Party.
Smith said she will be meeting with MLAs Friday and will be sworn in as premier next Tuesday at the legislature in Edmonton.
