OTTAWA — Prime Minister Mark Carney expressed gratitude to former Conservative MP Chris d'Entremont for joining the Liberal Party, a move that brings the government closer to a majority. Speaking at a transit garage in Ottawa on Wednesday, Carney highlighted d'Entremont's decision as significant for the Liberal caucus. "I would like to thank my colleagues from the capital region for joining me, and I’d especially like to thank Chris d’Entremont, the Member of Parliament for Acadie-Annapolis," Carney said. "I’m honored to welcome him as the newest member of our government caucus."

D'Entremont's switch from the Conservative Party comes just a day after the government presented its budget, which has drawn mixed reactions. The Liberals now hold 170 seats in the House of Commons, just two short of a majority. D'Entremont's decision has sparked both praise from Liberals and criticism from Conservatives. The Conservative Party released a statement expressing disappointment, stating, "Conservatives are disappointed he let his own personal grievances of not getting elected deputy Speaker get in the way of his promises."

Conservative MP Aaron Gunn labeled d'Entremont a "coward," while Deputy Leader Melissa Lantsman criticized him for not addressing inflation and high grocery prices. In response to the backlash, d'Entremont explained that his choice stemmed from a growing disconnect with the Conservative Party and its leader, Pierre Poilievre. "As a Nova Scotian, we’re always trying to find ways to work together, to solve issues that are important to our communities," he said. "I didn’t see it by sitting in the opposition; I saw it by being a part of the government caucus."

D'Entremont emphasized that his decision was not influenced by any offers from the Liberals. He stated, "Really, it had to do with my riding itself." He also noted that others in the Conservative caucus share his sentiments about the party's direction. Carney, when asked about the possibility of other Conservative MPs crossing the floor, remained tight-lipped, focusing instead on d'Entremont's contributions. "I want to underscore how much I admire Chris d’Entremont and appreciate his joining the government caucus at this crucial time for our country," Carney said.

D'Entremont will attend his first Liberal caucus meeting following his transition. He remarked that the current political climate requires leadership that is confident and forward-looking. "We have a great opportunity here in Canada. Rather than knocking people down, we should find ways to work together," he said. The implications of d'Entremont's move could influence the dynamics in the House of Commons as the Liberals seek to solidify their position.

This development comes as the government navigates a minority situation, needing support from other parties to pass legislation. The budget presented by Carney's government has been described as deficit-heavy, raising questions about its long-term impact on the economy and public sentiment.

As the political landscape evolves, the focus will remain on how d'Entremont's decision affects both the Liberal Party and the Conservative Party moving forward.