The Current Another Conservative crosses the floor
Feb 19, 2026
Rosemary Barton, CBC chief political correspondent, offers sharp federal analysis. Stephanie Levitz, Globe and Mail senior Ottawa reporter, provides in-depth political reporting. They unpack a recent MP switching parties, timing and strategy behind the move, local fallout in ridings, implications for Pierre Poilievre's control, and whether Liberals might push for a snap election.
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Policy Moments Can Prompt Party Switching
- Floor crossings can be triggered by policy moments that reshape MPs' sense of urgency and purpose.
- Matt Gennereau said Mark Carney's Davos speech helped tip him into joining the Liberals.
A Delayed Decision Became A Flip
- Matt Gennereau had privately considered crossing months earlier and met the prime minister before deciding to wait.
- Stephanie Levitz says that delay allowed the Liberals more time to convince him to flip.
How One Defection Influences Others
- Conservatives watch how floor crossings land because outcomes affect future defections.
- Successful or messy switches shape whether more MPs follow.