Former Staff Member Criticizes d'Entremont's Party Switch
Brian Hirtle, once a key supporter and electoral district association president for Acadie-Annapolis MP Chris d'Entremont, expressed strong disapproval of the MP's decision to join the Liberal Party.
Shock Over Floor Crossing
Hirtle, who assisted in all three of d'Entremont's federal election victories as a Conservative, was surprised by the sudden news. He recalled waking up to find the information spreading widely.
“I woke up from a nap and the phone lit up everywhere. It was all over the news that he was considering it. I was as shocked as anybody.”
Accusations of Self-Interest
He described the switch as “self-serving” and a betrayal of the people who helped elect d'Entremont.
“It’s a slap in the face to the residents. It takes a village to get an MP elected. It takes a community of hard-working folks from Argyle to Long Point Road. It’s a team effort.”
Hirtle lamented that the team had been proud to keep the lone Conservative seat in Nova Scotia, which d'Entremont effectively gave away by changing party allegiance.
Uncertainty About Future Relations
Despite their past friendship and collaboration, Hirtle is unsure how their relationship will evolve after this event. He also mentioned the disappointment felt by younger voters who supported d'Entremont for the first time in April.
“He feels very betrayed.”
Author’s Summary
Brian Hirtle sees d'Entremont’s move to the Liberals as a betrayal of his supporters and a disregard for the community effort behind his elections.