Third Conservative MP crosses floor to join Carney’s Liberals, raising questions about Poilievre’s leadership
In a significant political realignment that raises fresh questions about Conservative unity, Edmonton Riverbend MP Matt Jeneroux has become the third member of the official Opposition to cross the floor and join forces with Prime Minister Mark Carney's Liberal government.
Jeneroux, a four-time elected Member of Parliament and former Alberta legislature member, announced his decision in a letter to constituents on Wednesday, stating that he had been reflecting on “the gravity of the moment that our country is living through,” a moment he acknowledged the Prime Minister had “addressed head on in his speech at Davos.”
Agreeing with that assessment, Jeneroux wrote that Canada is at a moment that “demands steady leadership, constructive collaboration between all Parliamentarians, and a willingness to stand up and serve even when the path is not easy.”
The move marks another defection from Leader Pierre Poilievre's Conservative caucus, following two other MPs who have recently aligned themselves with the Carney Liberals' agenda. The pattern is emerging as a political headache for Poilievre, who has positioned himself as the sharp-edged alternative to the Liberals, but now appears to be losing veteran members from his own ranks.
Prime Minister Carney welcomed Jeneroux in a statement on social media, calling him “a strong voice for Edmonton Riverbend” and announcing that the MP would serve as a special advisor on economic and security partnerships.
“Building a stronger, more resilient, and more independent country will require ambition, collaboration, and occasionally, sacrifice,” Carney said. “I am grateful to Matt and his family that he will continue his service.”
A Pattern Of Departures
Jeneroux's decision to join Carney's team is the third such instance of a Conservative MP opting to work with the Liberal government rather than remain in Poilievre's caucus. While floor-crossings are not unprecedented, the frequency and proximity of these moves are striking political developments that underscore potential fractures within the Conservative Party.
Political observers note that Jeneroux is not a backbench outlier and has held high-profile critic roles in supply chains, innovation, infrastructure, health, and housing. His resignation from the Conservative fold suggests a discomfort with the party's current trajectory under Poilievre.
In his letter, Jeneroux hinted at the gravity of the current political moment, referencing “honest, difficult, and deeply personal” conversations with his family about how to best serve the country. He argued that joining Carney's team would allow him to focus on major nation-building projects and “national stability” while avoiding an expensive by-election.
A Blow To Poilievre's Authority
For Poilievre, the loss of a third MP is a direct challenge to his leadership authority. Since taking the helm of the Conservative Party, Poilievre has built a brand around unapologetic opposition to the Liberal government, tapping into far-right populist sentiment and rallying his base with fiery rhetoric against the political establishment.
However, these defections paint a picture of a caucus that is not entirely united behind that vision. Critics within the party and from the outside may now question whether Poilievre's hardline approach is alienating moderate voices who see Carney’s more centrist, economic-focused government as a viable alternative.
The timing is particularly delicate. With Carney branding his government as a response to a “changed world,” and courting experienced parliamentarians like Jeneroux, the Liberals are effectively building a team that includes seasoned Conservative voices. This could blur traditional party lines and appeal to swing voters who prioritize stability over partisanship.
What's Next?
Jeneroux will now serve as a special advisor focusing on strengthening Canada's alliances and trade partnerships. For Edmonton Riverbend, he will remain the MP, but his allegiance has shifted firmly to the Carney government.
For Pierre Poilievre, the immediate challenge will be to stem the bleeding. With three MPs having now crossed the floor, questions will mount about whether others may follow and whether his message of “Canada is broken” is resonating within his own house.
The Conservative leader has yet to comment publicly on Jeneroux's departure, but the pressure is growing for him to assert control and reaffirm his vision before more members decide that the future lies with the new Prime Minister rather than the official Opposition.
