Canada’s governing Liberal Party has moved a step closer to securing a parliamentary majority after a second Conservative Member of Parliament crossed the floor to join Prime Minister Mark Carney’s caucus. Michael Ma, the MP for Markham–Unionville in Ontario, announced his defection from the Conservative Party on Thursday, marking the latest shift in the country’s fractious political landscape.
In a statement released by the Liberal Party, Ma said his decision followed careful reflection with his family and consultations with constituents. “This is a time for unity and decisive action for Canada’s future,” he said, adding that he believes Carney offers the “steady, practical approach” necessary to address economic and social priorities he encountered while door-knocking in his riding.
Ma’s move increases the Liberal tally to 171 seats in the House of Commons, leaving the government just one seat shy of an outright majority. Were the Liberals to secure that majority, Carney’s government would be better positioned to pass legislation and implement its agenda without relying on support from opposition parties.
The MP’s decision comes just weeks after another Conservative, Chris d’Entremont of Nova Scotia, also joined the Liberals in early November, further eroding the opposition’s ranks. Ma thanked his supporters and emphasized the importance of working collectively to build “a stronger, safer, and more prosperous future” for Canadians.
The defections have delivered a significant blow to Conservative Party leader Pierre Poilievre, who is already confronting internal challenges, including a leadership review scheduled for January. Poilievre has criticised Ma’s defection, describing it as a departure from the policies Ma previously championed.
Ma was narrowly elected as a Conservative in the April federal election, defeating his Liberal rival to win the Markham–Unionville seat. His decision to switch allegiances has drawn mixed reactions, with some praising his focus on unity and others questioning the implications for voter representation given the party shift since the election.
Prime Minister Carney publicly welcomed Ma at a Liberal caucus holiday event in Ottawa on Thursday evening, highlighting his government’s growing support. Political analysts suggest the recent defections reflect broader tensions within the Conservative Party and could influence the balance of power in Ottawa in the run-up to future parliamentary sessions.
