Power & Politics Weekly Wrap: The NDP gets even smaller. Is it on the brink?
Mar 14, 2026
Michael Solberg, former Conservative staffer and commentator, provides conservative analysis. Zain Velji, ex-Alberta NDP strategist, offers a New Democrat perspective. Carleen Varion, former Liberal chief of staff, breaks down parliamentary strategy. They debate NDP floor crossing and decline. They weigh Liberal momentum, Conservative responses, leadership timing, regional dynamics, and what reshaped progressive politics could mean.
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Carney's Expanding Political Momentum
- Mark Carney's Liberal coalition is growing by attracting MPs from multiple parties, creating political momentum beyond mere seat counts.
- Zain Velji notes pickups, cross-party votes and by-election prospects signal directional momentum that helps the Liberals consolidate power.
Cross-Party Votes Broaden Liberal Tent
- Cross-party votes, like 15 Liberals supporting an NDP arms export bill, show the Liberals' tent includes progressive positions, increasing their legislative dexterity.
- Zain Velji frames such votes as a 'leftward dexterity' enabling Carney to govern with a broader coalition.
Nunavut MP Crossed Floor For Constituents
- Laurie Idlout crossed the floor the day after NDP leadership voting began, citing constituent access to government as a reason.
- Michael Solberg recounts his experience that MPs often feel they can better serve constituents from government benches, especially in the North.