Conservative MP Matt Jeneroux announced on Thursday that he is resigning from the House of Commons, addressing speculation that he might join the Liberal Party. Rumors circulated throughout the week suggesting the Alberta MP was considering crossing the floor, with some Conservative sources claiming he faced pressure to stay within the party.
A senior Liberal source confirmed that Jeneroux met with Prime Minister Mark Carney earlier this week. However, Jeneroux emphasized that his decision to resign was not influenced by any coercion.
"I want to be clear that there was no coercion involved in my decision to resign. I consider my colleagues in the Conservative Party very close friends, and I will miss them dearly,"
Jeneroux's resignation marked the second departure from the Conservative caucus this week, following Nova Scotia MP Chris d'Entremont’s move to the Liberals. These changes represent challenges to Pierre Poilievre's leadership but also provide the minority Liberal government with greater flexibility to pass legislation, including this week’s budget.
Jeneroux’s departure reflects ongoing political shifts and pressures within Canada’s parliamentary landscape.
Author's summary: Matt Jeneroux resigned from federal politics amidst rumors of party switching, firmly rejecting coercion and highlighting the evolving dynamics within Canada’s Conservative and Liberal parties.