Scotland’s political leaders have expressed disappointment at Donald Trump’s victory in the US election – but insisted the result must be respected.
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon urged the tycoon to reach out to the victims of his controversial campaign as she warned his win has caused a “real sense of anxiety” among those he marginalised.
The SNP leader, who was a vocal critic of the Republican candidate during his bid for office, has come under pressure to shun the “dangerous and deluded” former reality TV star.
But, in a carefully worded statement, Ms Sturgeon said: “We value our relationship with the United States and its people.
“The ties that bind Scotland and the US – of family, culture and business – are deep and longstanding and they will always endure.
“It is normal in any election for those on the losing side to be feel disappointment, but today, many in America and across the world, will also feel a real sense of anxiety.
“I hope the president-elect will take the opportunity to reach out to those who felt marginalized by his campaign and make clear – in deeds as well as words – that he will be a president for everyone in modern, multicultural America.”
Ms Sturgeon said she was “personally disappointed” that Ms Clinton would not be the first female US president, but said her candidacy.
Former First Minister Alex Salmond said he was “deeply disappointed” with Mr Trump’s victory.
He added: “The difficulty with Donald Trump is not when he’s winning, it’s not when he’s getting his own way, he’s nice as ninepence when he’s getting his own way.
“It’s what happens when he reaches road blocks, obstacles, when somebody says no to him.
“In these circumstances we’d better all just hope that the presidency changes a man.”
Theresa May congratulated Mr Trump and praised the “special relationship” between the UK and US and said she looked forward to working with the President-elect.
Ms May, who had previously criticised some of Mr Trump’s remarks, said: “I would like to congratulate Donald Trump on being elected the next president of the United States, following a hard-fought campaign.
“Britain and the United States have an enduring and special relationship based on the values of freedom, democracy and enterprise.
“We are, and will remain, strong and close partners on trade, security and defence.
“I look forward to working with President-elect Donald Trump, building on these ties to ensure the security and prosperity of our nations in the years ahead.”
Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson said he was “much looking forward” to working with Mr Trump.
UKIP’s Nigel Farage – who had campaigned with the tycoon – hailed the result.
But Labour leader Mr Corbyn suggested the pair would have “robust discussions” in the future.
He added: “The public anger that has propelled Donald Trump to office has been reflected in political upheavals across the world.”
