Chris d'Entremont’s Party Switch Sparks Mixed Reactions in Nova Scotia
MP Chris d'Entremont's decision to leave the Conservative Party and join the governing Liberals has drawn varied responses in his home province of Nova Scotia. Some residents support his choice, while others feel he misled voters about his intentions.
Motivation for Crossing the Floor
D'Entremont, who represents Acadie-Annapolis, explained his departure from the Conservative caucus by saying he no longer felt aligned with the party under leader Pierre Poilievre.
"That does not surprise me," said Linda Gregory, warden of the Municipality of the District of Digby. "I think of Poilievre as a right-winger. I personally would run too."
Community Perspective on the Switch
Gregory, from within d'Entremont’s southwest Nova Scotia riding, acknowledged the longtime politician’s party switch was unexpected since he has long been recognized as a "staunch Conservative."
"But he's also got a lot of integrity. He's also a very caring person, caring about his community, caring about what's best. And to me, when he walked across the floor, he made a decision that was very heart-wrenching for him to make the best choice for our community," Gregory added.
Political Background
- D'Entremont was first elected to the Nova Scotia Legislature in 2003 as a Progressive Conservative.
- He was re-elected four times and held several cabinet roles.
- Later, he pursued a federal seat in West Nova, now Acadie-Annapolis.
- In the 2019 federal election, he was the only non-Liberal MP elected in Nova Scotia.
Summary: Chris d'Entremont’s switch from Conservative to Liberal has stirred both support and critique in Nova Scotia, reflecting divided views on political loyalty and community representation.