Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre indicated on Wednesday that he is not contemplating any changes to his leadership style following the departure of two MPs from his caucus. One of the MPs mentioned the leader’s “negative” approach to politics as a reason for leaving the party.
During a news conference in Calgary, Poilievre referenced a previous statement by Nova Scotia MP Chris d’Entremont, who switched to the Liberals, when addressing questions about the Conservative caucus challenges. When asked if these departures reflect on his leadership or prompt self-reflection, Poilievre responded with a firm “no.”
Poilievre reiterated his commitment to championing an affordable Canada where hardworking individuals can afford housing and food. He dismissed allegations from d’Entremont about the Conservative party running like “a frat house,” pointing to the MP’s own remarks in the House of Commons regarding Liberal food inflation.
In a separate interview, d’Entremont accused two senior Conservatives of confronting him in his office, with one allegedly calling him “a snake,” which influenced his decision to switch to the Liberals. Poilievre’s spokesperson labeled d’Entremont as a “liar” who aligns with other alleged dishonest Liberals.
Despite d’Entremont’s past criticisms of the government’s policies on food price inflation and carbon tax, he still opted to join the Liberals. The departures of d’Entremont and another Conservative MP, Matt Jeneroux, have caused concern within the Conservative Party and potentially strengthened the Liberal government’s position in Parliament.
Poilievre also suggested that media coverage should focus more on critical remarks made by Liberal MP Nathaniel Erskine-Smith about the recent budget, implying a disparity in coverage between parties.