Conservative MP Matt Jeneroux Denies Coercion in Resignation
Conservative MP Matt Jeneroux announced on Thursday that he is resigning from the House of Commons, dispelling rumors that he intended to join the Liberals. Throughout the week, speculation grew that the Alberta MP was considering switching parties, with Conservative insiders saying he faced pressure to stay.
A senior Liberal source confirmed that Jeneroux met with Prime Minister Mark Carney earlier this week. However, Jeneroux firmly stated that no coercion influenced his decision to leave federal politics.
"I want to be clear that there was no coercion involved in my decision to resign. I consider my colleagues in the Conservative Party very close friends, and I will miss them dearly,"
Impact on Conservative Caucus and Liberal Government
Jeneroux's resignation marks the second departure from the Conservative caucus this week after Nova Scotia MP Chris d'Entremont joined the Liberals on Tuesday. These events present challenges to Pierre Poilievre’s leadership and offer the minority Liberal government greater flexibility to pass legislation such as this week's budget.
Jeneroux’s Statement on His Decision
In his resignation statement, Jeneroux made only a brief mention of Poilievre. Later, through official party channels, he shared a second statement saying he spoke with the Conservative leader after announcing his resignation. He emphasized that his choice was motivated by a desire to spend more time with his family.
“It was a desire to spend time with family that motivated my decision to call it quits.”
Author’s summary: Matt Jeneroux denies any pressure in his resignation, citing family reasons, while his departure weakens Conservative leadership and benefits the Liberal minority government.