Power & Politics A 3rd Conservative crosses the floor. Is a Liberal majority next?
Feb 18, 2026
Zane Velji, former Alberta NDP strategist with regional insight. Amanda Alvaro, ex-Liberal communications strategist focused on messaging. Tim Powers, Conservative strategist with campaign perspective. They dig into why an Alberta Conservative switched to the Liberals. They discuss signs of more defections, leadership pressure on Pierre Poiliev, and how a razor-thin Liberal majority would change parliamentary dynamics.
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Terrebonne Framed As Momentous By-Election
- Fred DeLorey called the Terrebonne by-election "the most consequential by-election in Canadian history."
- He compared the situation to rare moments where a single seat can determine a majority.
Slim Majority Changes Parliamentary Control
- A slim majority would let the Liberals control committees and timetables, easing passage of legislation.
- David Hurley argues Mark Carney values that control and stability to implement a long-term plan.
Majority Both Helps And Hurts Opposition
- A Liberal majority would give Pierre Poiliev breathing room but also risk consolidating Carney's mandate.
- Fred DeLorey and others note it could stabilize or further politicize Conservative leadership dynamics.