The Paikin Podcast Everything Political: Carney the Convincer, Floor Crossings, and Mr. Poilievre Goes Abroad
Mar 19, 2026
Tony Clement, former Conservative MP and cabinet minister, offers seasoned conservative perspective. Martha Hall Findlay, former Liberal MP and trade executive, brings centrist policy insight. They discuss rising floor crossings to the Liberals and whether recruitment tactics are democratic. They also debate Pierre Poilievre’s international appearances and if partisan activity abroad crosses a line.
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David Emerson Crossed Then Joined Cabinet Minutes Later
- Tony Clement recalled David Emerson switching from Liberal to Conservative and being sworn into cabinet minutes after crossing.
- Emerson arrived at the Rideau Hall anteroom with a Bible, immediately became the media focus and a senior cabinet minister.
Carney's Crossings Signal Personal Credibility Over Ideology
- Martha Hall Findlay said multiple crossovers to Mark Carney reflect his personal credibility and a desire for pragmatic governance.
- She framed Carney as attracting politicians across parties because he's seen as getting things done beyond partisan labels.
Majority By Floor Crossing Looks Unseemly And Risky
- Tony Clement argued winning a majority via floor crossings is politically unseemly and could be a future liability for Mark Carney.
- He suggested leaders seeking a majority should go to voters rather than stitch deals to change House math.