After being confronted and yelled at by Conservative Party leaders in his office, Nova Scotia MP Chris d’Entremont felt compelled to switch sides and join the Liberals in the House of Commons this week. The incident, as described by d’Entremont, involved Conservative House leader Andrew Scheer and party whip Chris Warkentin barging into his office, creating a hostile environment. This experience solidified d’Entremont’s decision to cross the floor, as he expressed during an interview on CBC’s program “Rosemary Barton Live.”
The MP highlighted the negative atmosphere and personal attacks within the Conservative Party, which he likened to behavior more fitting of a fraternity house than a serious political organization. In response, the Conservative Party denied d’Entremont’s version of events, portraying him as untrustworthy and accusing him of deceit following his defection.
Regarding the encounter with Scheer and Warkentin, the Official Opposition’s office stated that the leaders entered the office calmly and engaged in a measured conversation with d’Entremont. The party emphasized that d’Entremont’s actions were seen as betraying his constituents and colleagues, rather than noble.
D’Entremont reflected on his decision to switch parties, citing longstanding discontent among his supporters due to the Conservative Party’s leadership style. He clarified that his move to the Liberals was not influenced by promises of a cabinet position or other incentives. The MP also mentioned a meeting with Prime Minister Mark Carney, which further solidified his choice to change allegiance.
The fallout from d’Entremont’s defection has raised concerns about discord within the Conservative caucus, especially after another MP, Matt Jeneroux from Edmonton Riverbend, announced his resignation shortly after meeting with Carney. Sources indicated that efforts were made within the Conservative Party, led by figures like Jenni Byrne, to prevent further defections.
D’Entremont hinted that several other Conservative caucus members were contemplating crossing the floor, indicating underlying dissatisfaction within the party. Despite his satisfaction with his decision, he remains undecided about his political future, leaving open the possibility of not running in the next election.