In a significant political realignment, Conservative Member of Parliament Michael Ma has announced his departure from the opposition benches to join Prime Minister Mark Carney’s Liberal Party. The Ontario representative made his surprising declaration Thursday evening, emphasizing his belief that “the time for unity and decisive action” had arrived.
This defection represents the second such party switch within a month, following Nova Scotia MP Chris d’Entremont’s similar move to the governing Liberals in November. The political shift leaves Carney’s government merely one seat short of securing a parliamentary majority, substantially strengthening the Prime Minister’s legislative position while dealing a considerable blow to Conservative opposition forces.
Ma justified his decision by praising Carney’s “steady, practical approach” that he believes aligns with constituent priorities he encounters daily. The Prime Minister enthusiastically welcomed his new colleague during Ottawa’s Liberal holiday gathering, inviting him on stage and celebrating the expansion of what he termed the “big, broad, and growing Liberal tent.”
Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre responded sharply, accusing Ma of betraying voters who had elected him specifically to oppose Liberal policies. “He has let down those who supported him and will have to answer to them,” Poilievre stated.
The timing proves particularly sensitive for Poilievre, occurring just weeks before his scheduled leadership review. The Conservative party has experienced considerable turbulence since their election defeat earlier this year, which many attribute to Poilievre’s combative political style. The leader himself lost his Ottawa seat during the general election, requiring a safe Alberta riding to be vacated by a Conservative colleague to enable his return to Parliament in August.
Ma originally secured his Markham-Unionville constituency north of Toronto by defeating the Liberal candidate by approximately 2,000 votes earlier this year. The riding has historically alternated between Conservative and Liberal representation, reflecting its competitive nature.
The recent defections signal growing internal challenges for Poilievre’s leadership. d’Entremont previously cited a lack of representation under Poilievre’s direction as his reason for crossing the floor, particularly following Carney’s first fiscal plan presentation. The Conservatives dismissed that move as motivated by “personal grievances” rather than principle.
Additional Conservative resignations have further weakened the opposition bench, including Alberta MP Matt Jeneroux’s November departure citing family considerations.