Chris d'Entremont’s Party Switch Divides Opinion in Nova Scotia
The decision of MP Chris d'Entremont to leave the Conservative Party and join the governing Liberals has stirred mixed reactions in his home province of Nova Scotia. Some residents support his move, while others believe he misled voters about his intentions.
Reasons for the Switch
D'Entremont, who represents the riding of Acadie-Annapolis, explained on Wednesday that he no longer felt represented in Pierre Poilievre’s Conservative Party. He said his decision was driven by a sense of integrity and duty to his community.
"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."
Community Reactions
Gregory, whose municipality is part of d’Entremont’s southwest Nova Scotia riding, acknowledged the move was unexpected given his long-standing Conservative reputation. However, she praised his sincerity and concern for local residents.
"He's always been known as a staunch Conservative," Gregory said. "But he's also a person of integrity who cares deeply about his community. When he crossed the floor, it was clearly a difficult decision made for what he believed was best for us."
Political Background
D'Entremont began his political career in 2003 when he was elected to the Nova Scotia Legislature as a Progressive Conservative. He was re-elected four times and held several cabinet roles before entering federal politics, representing West Nova—now known as Acadie-Annapolis. In the 2019 federal election, he became the only non-Liberal MP elected from Nova Scotia.
Author’s Summary
D'Entremont’s defection to the Liberals has split opinion in Nova Scotia, with constituents balancing trust in his integrity against doubts about political loyalty.