Conservative MP Matt Jeneroux Announces Resignation from Parliament
Edmonton Conservative MP Matt Jeneroux has announced his decision to resign from the House of Commons, marking a development that could move the Liberals closer to securing their budget without the support of other parties.
The news follows speculation earlier this week that Jeneroux might consider joining the Liberal Party after Chris d’Entremont’s floor crossing. However, Jeneroux has not confirmed any such plans.
Letter of Resignation
On Thursday, Jeneroux submitted a letter formally announcing his departure but did not provide any reasons for leaving federal politics or specify the exact timing of his resignation.
Possible Political Impact
If the Liberals fail to pass any of the three key budget votes, the result could trigger another general election. Jeneroux did not participate in-person or virtually in the Thursday evening vote on the Conservative subamendment to the budget motion, which was defeated by combined votes from the Liberals, Bloc Québécois, NDP, and Green Leader Elizabeth May.
Final Remarks and Party Reactions
“I wanted one last opportunity to address the House,” Jeneroux said.
Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre later posted on X that Jeneroux would officially step down in the spring. The next major vote, on the Bloc Québécois amendment, was expected on Friday, with the final budget motion scheduled for November.
Shifts in Parliamentary Numbers
After Jeneroux’s resignation, the Conservatives will hold 142 seats, while the Bloc Québécois will have 22, the New Democrats seven, and the Greens one.
Author Summary: Matt Jeneroux’s resignation reshapes the House balance, potentially easing Liberal efforts to pass the budget amid heightened political uncertainty.