Nunavut’s Member of Parliament (MP) has stated that she currently has no intention of aligning with the federal Liberal Party. Lori Idlout shared in an interview with CBC News that she has made a decision not to switch parties at this juncture, despite being approached by various individuals, including both Liberal Party members and constituents, urging her to consider the move.
While declining to disclose the specific individuals who have encouraged her to switch sides, Idlout expressed gratitude for the discussions she has had on the matter, emphasizing that her ultimate decision will prioritize the best interests of Nunavummiut.
The recent defections of MPs Chris d’Entremont and Michael Ma from the Conservative Party to join the Liberals have brought the latter within one seat of securing a majority government. Contrary to speculation, an email from the office of Idlout’s neighboring MP in the Northwest Territories, Liberal cabinet minister Rebecca Alty, clarified that Alty has not initiated any discussions with Idlout about crossing over.
Despite the ongoing speculations, Idlout conveyed her surprise at the previous floor-crossings and hinted at potential future shifts in allegiance among parliamentarians. She stressed that the consideration of moving to the Liberals has prompted her to reflect on how she can effectively represent the people of Nunavut while staying true to her values and priorities.
Idlout, who narrowly won the 2025 federal election against a Liberal candidate, emphasized her role in advocating for Nunavut’s interests and standing up for issues such as Indigenous rights and territorial sovereignty. She voiced concerns over the One Canadian Economy Act and emphasized the importance of upholding Indigenous rights in major project approvals.
Furthermore, Idlout highlighted key areas of focus, including Arctic security, housing, and healthcare, where she believes the government should allocate more resources. She expressed reservations about potential constraints on her ability to critique the government’s policies effectively if she were to switch parties.
Political analyst Jerald Sabin noted that while crossing the floor could offer certain advantages within the government, such a move may risk alienating constituents who voted for the MP under a different party affiliation. Sabin also highlighted the strategic implications of being in opposition versus being part of the governing party, underscoring the complexities and potential repercussions of such political realignments.