A recent survey conducted by Nanos Research highlights a deep division among Canadians regarding the protocol for Members of Parliament (MPs) who choose to switch political parties. The poll, commissioned by The Globe and Mail, was conducted shortly after the Liberal Party regained a majority government in April, following a series of by-elections and several MPs crossing the floor since November. The findings reveal a nation torn between differing views on appropriate actions for MPs who change allegiance.
Public Sentiment on MPs Switching Parties
The poll, which surveyed over 1,000 Canadians, indicates that opinions are closely split on whether MPs should resign upon changing parties. Specifically, 34 per cent of respondents believe an MP should step down and run for re-election, while 32 per cent prefer that the MP remain as an independent until the next election. Meanwhile, 30 per cent support the idea of MPs freely switching parties without any obligation to resign. A mere four per cent of those surveyed expressed uncertainty on the matter.
Under current House of Commons regulations, there are no penalties for MPs who decide to change their party affiliation, allowing them to retain their seats without the need for a by-election.
Political Reactions to Floor Crossing
The phenomenon of MPs changing parties remains a flashpoint in Canadian politics, often eliciting strong reactions from rival factions. The recent floor crossings have drawn sharp criticism from both the Conservative and New Democratic parties. The Conservatives have gone so far as to propose that voters in affected ridings should have the power to initiate a petition for a by-election. In contrast, the NDP has long held the view that MPs who cross the floor should immediately resign and face the electorate in a by-election.
Despite the backlash, the Liberal Party has defended these defections as legitimate actions taken by individual MPs seeking to better serve their constituents within the Liberal framework. Historically, previous Conservative administrations have accepted floor crossers from other parties, indicating a complex relationship with this practice.
Polling Methodology and Historical Context
Nanos Research conducted its polling from May 3 to May 6, reaching a random sample of 1,003 Canadians aged 18 and older via a mix of landlines, cellphones, and online platforms. The results come with a margin of error of plus-or-minus three percentage points, 19 times out of 20. Notably, these findings align with previous Nanos polls from December 2025 and March 2026, suggesting a consistent public sentiment regarding this issue.
Historically, over 300 MPs have crossed the floor during their tenure since the inception of Confederation, indicating that this is not a new phenomenon. Nik Nanos, chief data scientist at Nanos Research, attributes the enduring views on floor crossing to deeply ingrained personal values and regional cultural differences. For instance, in the Prairies, 43 per cent of respondents believe MPs should resign, whereas in Quebec, 45 per cent argue for independent status until the next election.
The Broader Political Landscape
The political landscape has shifted considerably since the 2025 federal election, where the Liberals were just three seats shy of a majority with 169 seats. Following the resignations of prominent cabinet ministers Chrystia Freeland and Bill Blair, combined with a court decision that overturned the vote in Terrebonne, the party’s seat count fell to 166. The situation changed dramatically in November 2025 when Nova Scotia MP Chris d’Entremont became the first Conservative to cross the floor, soon followed by three other Conservatives and one New Democrat, bolstering Prime Minister Mark Carney’s government to a total of 171 seats.
In April, the Liberals achieved a long-sought majority through three successful by-elections, yet public opinion remains divided on the implications of these party shifts. When asked about the transition from a minority to a majority government, 53 per cent of respondents expressed optimism, believing the nation would benefit, while 26 per cent anticipated negative outcomes. An additional 17 per cent felt there would be no change, and five per cent were undecided.
Political analysts, including Lori Turnbull from Dalhousie University, suggest that the apparent support for a majority government amidst economic and geopolitical uncertainty may signal a desire for stability. This sentiment is particularly relevant given Canada’s ongoing trade negotiations with the United States, which many believe require a robust mandate for effective negotiation.
Why it Matters
The issue of MPs changing parties touches upon fundamental questions of democratic accountability and representation. As Canadians grapple with diverse opinions on how to handle such political manoeuvring, the responses collected in this poll reflect broader societal values and regional distinctions. The outcomes of these discussions may shape not only public trust in elected officials but also influence future electoral strategies and party dynamics. As the political landscape continues to evolve, understanding these sentiments will prove essential for any party looking to secure the trust and support of the electorate.
