The Liberals’ newest caucus member, Chris d’Entremont, indicated that other Conservative MPs might follow his lead in crossing the floor.
Chris d’Entremont, a Nova Scotia MP, announced his surprise move to leave the Conservative caucus and join the minority Liberal government. This decision came just hours after the Liberal budget was tabled in Parliament.
At a press conference in Ottawa, d’Entremont stood alongside Prime Minister Mark Carney, who welcomed him warmly.
“I’m honoured to welcome him as the newest member of our government caucus,” said Carney. “Chris’s decision to join the government caucus at this crucial moment for our country is exceptionally valuable and important.”
The Liberals currently hold a minority government, needing only two more seats for a majority, which would help them pass the budget without opposition support.
Speaking to reporters, d’Entremont reflected on his decision, explaining his ideological distance from Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre and his focus on serving his constituents.
“Over the last number of months, I wasn’t feeling that I was aligned with the ideals of what the leader of the opposition had been talking about. So, I’ve been sort of relooking at what my career is bringing, and what I can do for my constituency,” he said.
d’Entremont’s move may signal further shifts among Conservative MPs considering their positions in the changing political landscape.
Author's summary: Chris d’Entremont’s floor-crossing highlights growing rifts within the Conservative Party and potential gains for the minority Liberal government at a critical budget moment.