A Nova Scotian MP hopes those who voted for him as a Conservative, can forgive him.
Chris d’Entremont of Acadie-Annapolis crossed the floor, and joined the Liberals Tuesday night after the budget was presented.
Reflecting on his decision, he says it took months of research and soul-searching.
“It wasn’t an easy choice, I know I’ve disappointed many people, but I’ve received very positive comments from many others. We’re going to continue to move forward and prove that this is the best move for Acadie-Annapolis,” said d’Entremont in a phone interview with Acadia News.
Floor crossing ‘shocking’ to many in Acadie-Annapolis
D’Entremont says many are ‘bewildered’ over his decision, and social media has taken on a life of its own.
But he’s looking forward to returning to Nova Scotia and having conversations.
“It’s going to take a while and a lot of talking, I’m looking forward to being back home and explaining this.
People trust in their MPs to make decisions on their behalf. I believe I did it for the right reasons, for the riding.”
For those who worked on his campaign, d’Entremont says he’s in the process of reaching out to them.
“I hope at some point they can forgive me, but they know that we heard from folks on doorsteps during the last election that wanted to vote for me, but couldn’t vote for Pierre Poilievre and the party. That resonated in my head. I could not continue to support his type of leadership and negativity that comes from that side of the house, it solidifies even more that I’ve made the right decision.”
Conservatives say move fueled by loss of Deputy Speaker vote
The Conservatives issued a statement Tuesday, saying d’Entremont let his own personal grievances of not being elected Deputy Speaker factor into his defection.
d’Entremont denied that claim, and says it’s about building his riding, and moving away from their leadership style.
“They (Conservatives) don’t have Canadians in mind. They have taken on such an American, negative, ‘MAGA’ feel, that I did not recognize my party.
I’ve always been a red Tory throughout my career, and I don’t feel they represent that anymore.”
The move gave Prime Minister Mark Carney another seat in the House, the Liberals are now two seats away from a majority.
When asked about others in the Conservative Party potentially following his lead:
“I know there are a number of Canadians that are not liking that style of leadership, but I’ll let other members, if that comes along, tell their stories. For me, it was time to decide whether to deliver for my riding, or to sit and complain.”
Click play below to hear reporter Kevin Northup’s full interview with Chris d’Entremont.
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