A Conservative Member of Parliament from Alberta, Matt Jeneroux, has stepped down from his position but clarified he is not joining the Liberals.
In a social media statement on Thursday night, Jeneroux emphasized that his resignation was voluntary and free from any pressure. He expressed his closeness to Conservative colleagues and his sadness at leaving them behind.
“I consider my colleagues in the Conservative Party very close friends, and I will miss them dearly.”
Since announcing his resignation, Jeneroux shared that he had a positive conversation with party leader Pierre Poilievre, exchanging mutual well wishes.
“Since my resignation [Thursday] evening I had great conversation with Pierre Poilievre who wished me all the best, as I do him.”
Jeneroux ran in the last election under Poilievre's leadership, hoping to help form a government that would inspire hope for Canadians. He wished Poilievre and his Conservative colleagues success in addressing the cost of living challenges facing the country.
“I ran under Poilievre’s leadership in hopes that they could form a government that would offer hope to Canadians. I wish him and my colleagues all the best as they continue to raise cost of living issues facing Canadians.”
Earlier on Thursday evening, Jeneroux described his decision as difficult but believed it was the correct choice. He had hoped Canadians would support the Conservative team to improve the country’s image domestically and internationally.
“I ran in the last election hopeful that Canadians would put their faith in a team led by Pierre Poilievre’s Conservatives, offering a chance to change Canada’s perception in our own country and around the world.”
Despite the unexpected outcome, Jeneroux expressed respect for many of those elected to the House of Commons and spoke with the Opposition Whip to inform him of his resignation.
“With all of this in mind, [Thursday] I spoke with our Opposition Whip – a colleague and friend for whom I have the utmost respect – to inform him of my decision to resign as a Member of Parliament.”
Jeneroux made clear that his departure was not linked to joining another party, maintaining his loyalty to the Conservatives.
Matt Jeneroux resigned from parliament as a Conservative MP, affirming his respect for party colleagues and his belief that the decision was right despite unmet hopes in the recent election.
Author's summary: Matt Jeneroux resigned as a Conservative MP, expressing respect for colleagues and recognizing the decision as difficult but necessary amid political challenges.