Conservative MPs Accuse Carney of Undemocratic Tactics Amid Resignations
MP Resigns, Citing Family Reasons
A senior member of Canada’s Conservative opposition has criticized Prime Minister Mark Carney, accusing him of being “undemocratic” after the party lost two caucus members this week.
Matt Jeneroux, a Conservative MP from Alberta, resigned from parliament on Thursday, explaining he wanted to spend more time with his family. Earlier speculation suggested he might join the Liberal Party, though he denied any coercion influenced his decision.
Conservative Leadership Raises Concerns
Conservative house leader Andrew Scheer told reporters that Jeneroux’s resignation partly reflected “Liberal pressure tactics.” Scheer also dismissed media reports claiming Jeneroux had been in contact with Carney’s office prior to stepping down.
Scheer further accused Carney of attempting to secure a parliamentary majority through “backroom deals and pressure tactics,” calling the methods undemocratic.
Floor-Crossing MP Joins Liberals
Earlier this week, another Conservative MP, Chris d’Entremont, officially joined the Liberal Party. He cited frustration with Conservative leadership and Pierre Poilievre’s confrontational style. Carney welcomed d’Entremont, stating he hopes to gain further support from other lawmakers.
Jeneroux Clarifies Resignation
After initial media reports, Jeneroux issued a statement reaffirming that his resignation was based solely on personal reasons. “There was no coercion involved in my decision,” he said, emphasizing his desire to spend more time with family. His resignation will take effect next spring.
Opposition Leadership Review
Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre faces a leadership review in January amid criticism that his combative style contributed to the party’s election loss. He recently regained a seat in a safe Alberta riding after losing his Ottawa constituency, winning with more than 80% of the vote.
Implications for Carney’s Government
The Liberal government, now two seats short of a majority, relies on support from other parties to pass its first federal budget. Lawmakers are expected to vote on the budget in mid-November, and failure to pass it could trigger a federal election.
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