The day after Donald J. Trump was elected president of the United States, Alberta’s premier congratulated him on the victory.
Rachel Notley said Wednesday Alberta would continue with its climate change strategy, regardless of Trump’s stance.
She also said she’d be “surprised” if Ottawa softened its stance on climate change in light of Trump’s win.
READ MORE: Donald Trump wins the ‘most miserable’ election result for fighting climate change, scientists say
The premier also said a Canadian pipeline remains a priority for Alberta. However, Notley said her government’s focus is diversifying.
“The most important objective for us is to diversify our markets and diversify access to markets,” she said.
READ MORE: Sask. Premier Brad Wall says Trump win means Canada should stop carbon tax, hopeful for Keystone
She declined to offer her personal reaction to Trump winning the election.
“It’s very important to respect the rule of law… founded on the democratic process of elections,” the premier said. “We have to respect that.”
Watch below: The United States is by far Canada’s largest trading partner and that has politicians and business leaders in Alberta keeping a close eye on his economic promises. Tom Vernon reports.
However, Notley said some might describe it as “one step back” after several steps forward. She explained many people in the U.S. had hoped to finally see a woman elected president.
READ MORE: Hillary Clinton may have lost the election, but it was a historic night for women in US politics
The premier said Hillary Clinton inspired women around the world, including in Alberta, but said more work is needed to support and encourage women in leadership positions.
Notley was also asked about the only two women in the Alberta PC leadership race dropping out.
“Yesterday was not a great day for women in politics in Alberta.”
READ MORE: Sandra Jansen withdraws from Alberta PC leadership race citing ‘hostile takeover’
She said Jansen’s allegations are “deeply troubling” and trusts the PC Party will investigate them fully.
When asked if she’d ever experienced anything similar, Notley said no. She described her run for leadership within the NDP “embraced inclusivity” and was a wonderful experience.