Conservative Alberta MP Matt Jeneroux announced he will resign his seat in the House of Commons following intense speculation that he might cross the floor to join the governing Liberals. The move comes after a turbulent week in Canadian politics.
In a letter obtained by the National Post, the Edmonton Riverbend MP informed Conservative Party Whip Chris Warkentin on Thursday of his intent to leave Parliament at an unspecified date. Jeneroux wrote,
“It was not an easy decision, but it is, I believe, the right one.”
He did not clarify the reasons for his sudden resignation after serving since 2015.
Jeneroux's letter makes only brief mention of party leader Pierre Poilievre and expresses admiration for “the many remarkable individuals” on “both sides of the aisle” in the House of Commons.
This resignation marks the second Conservative MP to leave the caucus dramatically within three days, delivering a significant setback to Poilievre ahead of a leadership review scheduled for January.
One political commentator noted that Jeneroux’s departure sheds light on underlying tensions within the party, without elaborating further on his motives.
Author's summary: Matt Jeneroux's unexpected resignation from Parliament amid rumors of floor-crossing reveals deep divisions within the Conservative Party and weakens leader Poilievre ahead of a crucial leadership review.