Mixed reaction in Nova Scotia as D’entremont leaves conservatives for liberals

Residents of the Acadie–Annapolis riding had plenty to say after learning their member of Parliament, Chris d’Entremont, crossed the floor to join the federal Liberals. The longtime political figure, who has served as MP since 2019 and previously spent 16 years in the Nova Scotia Legislature as a Progressive Conservative, made the switch earlier this week.

Some locals welcomed the move.
“I was pleased,” said Larry Deveau, while others expressed surprise. Ed Wall, who knew d’Entremont from their time together in a Rotary Club, said he didn’t expect the change given d’Entremont’s long history with conservative politics. Supporters of the switch believe it could benefit the region.
“I am thrilled because I think he’s a good representative,” said June Kemp. Dennis Smith agreed, adding that Prime Minister Mark Carney “is good for the Liberals,” and that d’Entremont’s move could strengthen the party. However, not everyone is on board.
“I’m not very happy about this,” said Janet MacNeil. “I’m not very much impressed with the Liberals … I’m not pleased that he did that.”

The decision comes just months after a tight election race in April, where d’Entremont held onto his seat by only 533 votes—about 1.1 per cent—over the Liberal candidate.
On Wednesday, d’Entremont received a warm welcome from the Liberal caucus on Parliament Hill. Prime Minister Mark Carney praised the move, saying d’Entremont’s decision to join the government comes at a “crucial moment” for the country.