Conservative MP Matt Jeneroux Announces Resignation
Matt Jeneroux, the Edmonton Conservative MP, has confirmed he is resigning his seat in Parliament. His departure could strategically benefit the Liberals by improving their chances of passing the budget without relying on support from other parties.
Resignation Details and Political Context
Jeneroux sent a letter on Thursday informing about his decision but did not reveal why he is leaving federal politics. The exact timing of his resignation remains uncertain, as does whether he will participate in voting on related budget motions this week.
Impact on Upcoming Votes
The Liberals face critical votes on their budget; failure in any of them could force another election. Jeneroux abstained from voting in person or virtually on the Conservative subamendment to the budget motion Thursday night. That motion was defeated with opposition from the Liberals, Bloc Quebecois, NDP, and Green Party Leader Elizabeth May.
“I want one last opportunity to address the House,” Jeneroux stated, while Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre noted on X that Jeneroux plans to resign in the spring.
The next vote on the Bloc Quebecois amendment is set for Friday, followed by the budget motion itself scheduled for early November.
House Seat Distribution Post-Resignation
With Jeneroux's resignation, the Conservatives' seats would reduce to 142. The Bloc Quebecois currently hold 22 seats, the New Democrats 7, and the Greens 1.
Author's summary: Conservative MP Matt Jeneroux's pending resignation introduces uncertainty in budget votes, potentially easing the Liberals' path to passing their budget without broader party support.