OTTAWA – The Liberal government’s position in Parliament has been strengthened by the defection of Marilyn Gladue, a four-term Conservative MP representing an Ontario riding. The announcement was made on CBC’s The National.

Gladue stated she was drawn to the Liberal Party to contribute her “experience, talents, and views,” according to the broadcast. However, her past voting record reveals positions that diverge from traditional Liberal policies, including opposition to cannabis legalization, concerns about traffic deaths, and past questioning of COVID-19 vaccine mandates. She also previously indicated support for allowing private member bills to restrict abortion access.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has indicated a willingness to accommodate diverse viewpoints within the party, stating, “We are interested in unity, not uniformity.”

This is the fifth instance of an MP crossing the floor since the last federal election, with four Conservatives and one New Democrat joining the Liberal caucus. The defection, combined with three upcoming by-elections – including two in Liberal strongholds – could potentially secure a majority government for the Liberals.

Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre has accused Trudeau of pursuing a majority through “backroom deals,” according to the CBC report. Some constituents of Gladue expressed feelings of betrayal over her decision.

CBC News Chief Political Correspondent Rosemary Barton noted that the influx of MPs with differing viewpoints could present challenges for the Prime Minister in managing his caucus, but suggested that the pursuit of a majority government may lessen internal dissent.