I am of two minds when it comes to an infrequent event in the world of politics, which happened on one of the largest stages in Canada yesterday.
Nova Scotia M-P Chris d’Entremont, in a surprise move, crossed the floor to join the federal Liberals after saying he was officially leaving the Conservative party.
First elected in 2019, d’Entremont had served 16 years in Nova Scotia’s legislature before moving to federal politics.
First, let me say that I am a huge fan of people voting their conscience, and I secretly (but intensely) dislike when any elected official just parrots the talking points of the party or the platform.
That being said, I always shake my head when people change parties AFTER an election, especially one that just happened a few months ago.
One of the great things about municipal politics is that people vote for individual candidates only, and the their promises and track record are theirs and theirs alone.
Provincially and Federally, a huge part of why people vote for a candidate is the party and the platform they have. Most people will never meet or know much about the person who represents them. They only know the message they give and that is often provided for them.
When d’Entremont switches from blue to red, it creates a major change in the numbers and balance of power in Ottawa, while turning his back on many people who voted for the name of the party printed on the ballot, and not the candidate running under their banner.
I’m Paul Martin and that’s what I see looking Beyond the Headlines.
(PAUL MARTIN)
