Ontario MP Michael Ma has crossed the floor to join the Liberal government, putting the party just one seat away from a majority.
Ma announced his move Thursday evening, saying he wants to focus on “solutions over division.” He’s now the second Conservative MP to switch sides, following Nova Scotia’s Chris d’Entremont last month. With Ma’s jump, the Liberals now hold 171 of 343 seats.
The move is a major blow to Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre, who is already facing a leadership review in January after losing the April election. But for Prime Minister Mark Carney, it’s a big boost. Ma received a warm welcome at the Liberal holiday party, where Carney joked he’d have “a much better Christmas” with the Liberals.
Ma, elected for the first time in April, says he believes Carney offers a steady and practical approach that matches the priorities of his Markham–Unionville riding — affordability, economic growth, safety, and opportunities for families.
The switch brings the Liberals closer to controlling the House, though they still need support from other parties to pass legislation.
Conservatives criticized Ma’s decision, saying he betrayed the voters who elected him under their banner. Still, political watchers say the surprise floor crossing is a “major thunderclap” in Ottawa and could shift the balance of power heading into 2026.
(Source: The Globe and Mail)
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