Chris d'Entremont’s Party Switch Sparks Diverse Reactions in Nova Scotia
Chris d'Entremont's decision to leave the Conservative Party and join the governing Liberals has triggered mixed responses in his home province of Nova Scotia. Some residents fully support his move, while others feel he misled voters about his intentions.
Reasons for Leaving the Conservatives
D'Entremont, MP for Acadie-Annapolis, explained on Wednesday that he left the Conservative caucus because he no longer identified 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.”
Unexpected but Respected Decision
Despite this, Gregory described d'Entremont's defection as unexpected since he had long been recognized as a “staunch Conservative.” However, she emphasized his integrity and commitment to his community, suggesting his move was made with the community’s best interests in mind.
“He’s got a lot of integrity. He’s a very caring person, caring about his community, caring about what’s best. 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 said.
Political Background
- D'Entremont was first elected to the Nova Scotia Legislature in 2003 as a Progressive Conservative.
- He was re-elected four times, holding several cabinet roles.
- Later, he pursued federal politics, winning the West Nova seat, now renamed Acadie-Annapolis.
- In the 2019 federal election, he was the only non-Liberal MP elected in Nova Scotia.
His move is seen as significant given his longstanding political career and the unique position he held as the sole non-Liberal MP from Nova Scotia.
Summary: Chris d'Entremont’s switch from Conservative to Liberal has divided opinion in Nova Scotia but reflects his personal integrity and dedication to his community’s welfare.