Carney Liberals now ONE SEAT away from majority government as another feckless Conservative MP switches parties

Conservative MP Marilyn Gladu officially betrayed her constituents' will and crossed the floor to join Prime Minister Mark Carney’s Liberal government on Wednesday, giving the Liberals 171 seats—just one shy of a majority. The move marks the fourth defection from the Conservative caucus in recent months.

“This past year has been like no other that Canada has ever faced, and I’ve heard clearly from constituents that you want serious leadership and a real plan to bring a stronger and more independent Canadian economy,” Gladu said in her statement. “That is why I have decided to join Prime Minister Mark Carney and Canada’s new government as the newest member of his caucus.”

Carney welcomed her to the fold. “In a time of global economic uncertainty, Canada’s success will depend on how we build ambition into progress and strengths into sustained advantage. Marilyn brings the practical, results-driven leadership this effort demands,” he said.

Gladu’s departure has shocked her former colleagues. One Conservative MP, speaking on background, described the move as “shocking,” noting that Gladu had been “one of the most anti-Liberal, anti-Mark Carney members of the caucus.” She had opposed COVID-19 mandates, the Liberals’ C-9 anti-hate bill, and taken a firm anti-abortion stance.

In a letter to the Conservative caucus obtained by the National Post, Gladu stood by her decision to disregard the will of the voters. “Many of you may feel disappointed in me, which I accept and understand. What I would say is that in the time I have to serve in this place, I have made a choice to do the best thing for my riding, for my community’s priorities, and for the country,” she wrote, adding that she will continue “to bring her perspectives inside the government tent.”

The timing is notable. Gladu’s switch comes a day before the Liberals’ annual convention in Montreal and just ahead of three April 13 by-elections, including two in Liberal strongholds, that are expected to put Carney over the majority threshold. 

By all indicators, a Liberal majority is on the horizon.