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NDP MP Lori Idlout joins Liberal caucus
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney's Liberal Party gained a fourth defector from opposition ranks on Wednesday after New Democrat MP Lori Idlout announced she was crossing the floor. The move inches the governing party closer to a parliamentary majority.
Idlout cites community support and national priorities
In a statement released by the Liberals, Idlout said her decision followed "much personal reflection and encouragement from my community, family, and supporters." She emphasized the need for "a strong and ambitious government" to tackle pressing issues such as Arctic sovereignty, climate change, and affordability in Canada's northern territories.
"At this turning point in our history, I am ready to work with [Carney] to build a strong future for Nunavut and for all of Canada."
Lori Idlout, former NDP MP
NDP leader expresses disappointment
Interim NDP leader Don Davies criticized the move, arguing that MPs who abandon their party should seek a fresh mandate from voters. "We believe that when someone rejects the decision of their electors and wants to join another party, they should put that decision to their voters," Davies said.
Liberals celebrate addition of Nunavut advocate
The Liberal Party welcomed Idlout, describing her as "a tireless champion for Nunavut." In its statement, the party highlighted shared priorities, including addressing the high cost of living and improving conditions for Nunavut residents. Idlout, who was first elected in 2021 to represent the territory, had previously told CBC in January that she was considering the switch but wasn't ready to commit at the time.
Recent defections reshape parliamentary balance
Carney's minority government has steadily narrowed the gap to a majority through a series of floor crossings. In February, former Conservative MP Matt Jeneroux joined the Liberals, following two other Conservative defections late last year-Chris d'Entremont of Nova Scotia and Michael Ma of Ontario. The opposition Conservatives have accused the Liberals of employing "pressure tactics" to lure their members.
By-elections could secure Liberal majority
Carney announced three by-elections set for April 13, which could further solidify the Liberals' position. Two of the races are in Toronto ridings considered safe Liberal seats, while the third-a closely contested Montreal constituency-was previously won by the party by a single vote before the result was overturned by the Supreme Court. If the Liberals win all three seats and retain Idlout's support, they would hold 173 seats in the House of Commons, reducing the likelihood of an early election.
NDP faces leadership vote amid declining seat count
The NDP, which secured only seven seats in last year's federal election after losing significant vote share, will elect a new leader later this month. The party has yet to comment on whether Idlout's departure will influence its strategy moving forward.
