OTTAWA – Marilyn Gladue has crossed the floor from the Conservative Party to the Liberal Party, according to a CBC News broadcast Wednesday. This marks the fifth MP to join the Liberals in recent months, potentially moving Prime Minister Mark Carney closer to a majority government.

During the broadcast, commentators analyzed the implications of Gladue’s decision, focusing on Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre’s response. Poilievre attributed the defection to Prime Minister Carney, stating, “Our mandate and my leadership does not come from dirty backroom deals. It comes from the people of Canada.” He also asserted he has no need to reflect on his political future, citing the 8.3 million Canadians who voted Conservative.

Beyond Gladue’s departure, the Conservative Party has faced recent setbacks, including the resignation of Communications Director Katie Merrifield. CBC News reported, citing two Liberal sources, that the party is in discussions with nine additional MPs regarding a potential floor crossing.

Commentators suggested Poilievre has an “opportunity to really show some leadership” and “take some accountability” in light of these developments. One Conservative MP, speaking anonymously, revealed they had been repeatedly approached by the Liberals to switch parties.

Despite the recent losses, Conservative sources indicated there is currently no effort to oust Poilievre, noting his 87% approval rating in a recent leadership review. However, three Conservative sources described morale within the party as low, with concerns about further defections.

Meanwhile, the Liberals are hoping for success in three upcoming by-elections on Monday. The party aims to frame the elections as a choice between “seriousness over slogans” and “progress over fear.”

Separately, the broadcast also covered the impending return of the Artemis II astronauts, the sentencing of the man behind Canada’s largest gold heist to nearly four years in prison, and a CBC News investigation into alleged fraudulent practices by a Quebec maple syrup producer. The investigation by Radio Canada’s Enquête program revealed that syrup produced by Steve Bordeaux contained approximately 50% cane sugar, prompting a class-action lawsuit.