Chris d’Entremont, the newest Liberal caucus member, suggested that other Conservative MPs may soon take similar steps. The Nova Scotia representative explained that his political views no longer matched those of Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre.
During a press conference in Ottawa, d’Entremont appeared alongside Prime Minister Mark Carney the morning after his unexpected decision to leave the Conservative caucus and join the minority Liberal government shortly after they tabled their budget.
“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.”
His move comes as the Liberals, holding a minority, remain just two seats short of a majority that would secure easier budget approval without support from opposition parties.
Speaking to reporters, d’Entremont explained that his decision followed months of consideration and reflection on his political direction.
“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.
Chris d’Entremont’s defection underscores deep ideological rifts within the Conservative Party and offers the Liberals a potential path toward a working majority.