February 18, 2026
RED FM News Desk
Prime Minister Mark Carney says Conservative MP Matt Jeneroux is crossing the floor to join the Liberal caucus, marking the third such defection in recent months.
Carney shared the news in a post on social media, praising Jeneroux’s decision and welcoming him to the government benches.
“Building a stronger, more resilient and more independent country requires ambition, collaboration and, at times, sacrifice,” Carney wrote. “I am grateful to Matt and his family as he continues his service as a strong voice for Edmonton Riverbend in Parliament.”
Jeneroux later confirmed the move, saying that after discussions with his family, colleagues and constituents, he decided to remain in public office and work with Carney’s government.
“After further reflection, I will be continuing to serve in Parliament and will be working with Prime Minister Mark Carney as part of his new government to help strengthen our country as we face the challenges ahead,” he wrote Wednesday.
Jeneroux now joins d’Entremont and Michael Ma, who defected in December, in moving from the Conservative caucus to the Liberal side of the House.
Despite the recent additions, the Liberals remain short of a majority in the House of Commons. A number of departures have offset the gains.
Former cabinet minister Bill Blair resigned his seat after being appointed Canada’s high commissioner to the United Kingdom. Former justice minister David Lametti also left federal politics to become Canada’s ambassador to the United Nations, replacing Bob Rae. Meanwhile, former deputy prime minister Chrystia Freeland stepped down to accept an economic advisory role with the Ukrainian government.
Adding to the political uncertainty, the Supreme Court recently overturned the federal election result in the Quebec riding of Terrebonne, where Liberal MP Tatiana Auguste had secured victory by a single vote. A byelection will now be held in that constituency.
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