The Liberal government is one step closer to forming a majority as another opposition MP has decided to join its ranks.
Former NDP MP for Nunavut Lori Idlout was accompanied into her first Liberal caucus meeting by Prime Minister Mark Carney who praised his new recruit as one of “Canada’s greatest constituency MPs.”
Noting that she represents a riding the size of Mexico, Carney called Idlout “down to earth” and said he’s had conversations with her about what they can do, “Both large and small, in Nunavut.”
Speaking to reporters before being welcomed by chants of “Lo-ri! Lo-ri! Lo-ri!” in caucus, Idlout said there were a number of factors that led to her decision to cross the floor.
“It wasn’t just one thing that happened. There are a variety of many things that have allowed me to really reflect on this, and I’m very thankful to be so warmly welcomed,” said Idlout. On Tuesday, she cited “threats against our sovereignty” and pressures on peoples’ wellbeing in the north.
Conservative critic for arctic affairs and northern economic development Bob Zimmer has worked closely with Idlout and called her move “unfortunate.”
“To see her now go to the Liberals who she’s so readily criticized over the last number of years, to me, it’s a little strange,” said Zimmer. “I’ve seen comments from people in Nunavut that a lot of comments that aren’t happy with her move.”
In a post on social media the Prime Minister expressed how honoured he is to welcome Idlout, touting the former NDP MP’s work in “fighting for Nunavut’s potential and the immediate needs of its people.”
In a statement released through the Liberal Party, Idlout said Mark Carney is the first Prime Minister from the North and, “this turning point in our history, I am ready to work with him to build a strong future for Nunavut and for all of Canada.”
Idlout was first elected in the riding of Nunavut in 2021 and narrowly won by 41 votes in the 2025 election. The 51-year old MP said she has been hearing from Nunavummiut that this is a crucial moment for the territory and the country.
“That is why after much personal reflection and encouragement from my community, family, and supporters, I have decided to join the government caucus and to work alongside Prime Minister Mark Carney to build the better future that Nunavummiut are counting on,” Idlout said in a statement.
The Nunavut MP also said there is a need for policies that reflect the culture, language, and rights of Inuit and Canadians all throughout the North.
Liberal MPs welcomed their newest member with open arms as they arrived for their caucus meeting on parliament hill.
-with files from Mike Le Couteur/CTV
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