Conservative MP Kelly DeRidder, representing the Ontario riding of Kitchener Centre, publicly revealed that she was contacted by a member of the Liberal Party with an offer to cross the floor. DeRidder declined the offer, stating her commitment to transparency and accountability in government.
Details of the Attempt
According to DeRidder, the Liberal Party member suggested that switching parties would improve her chances of winning the next election. DeRidder shared that she was told a joint Liberal-Green candidate would be put forward in Kitchener Centre, making a Conservative victory unlikely. “It was a conversation that started with, ‘Well, we’re gonna put someone in Kitchener Centre that is gonna be supported by both the Liberals and the Greens, so you don’t really stand a chance in the next election. You might as well come over to our side,’” she stated.
This attempt to recruit DeRidder comes after multiple Conservative MPs have crossed the floor to join the Liberal Party in recent months. Prime Minister Mark Carney commented earlier this month, following the defection of Marilyn Gladu, that these new members bring valuable “perspectives and expertise” to the government.
DeRidder’s Response and Concerns
DeRidder explained her decision to publicly disclose the offer, stating she was frustrated with blame being directed at the Conservative Party and its leader. She felt it was important to reveal that active recruitment efforts were underway from the opposing party. “There needs to be transparency and accountability in government and that’s just the bottom line and it’s being slowly eroded away and the trust in our institutions is going to be gone,” DeRidder told CBC News.
She also noted that she was praised for her work in committee, particularly regarding her interest in AI and digital policy, and was told there would be a place for her on the Liberal team.
Kitchener Centre’s Political Landscape
The Kitchener Centre riding has a history of changing representation. It was one of three local seats the Conservatives flipped in the 2025 election, alongside Cambridge and Kitchener South-Hespeler. Prior to DeRidder’s win, Mike Morrice of the Green Party held the seat.
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted Kelly DeRidder to speak out about the Liberal Party’s offer?
DeRidder stated she was frustrated with blame being placed on the Conservative Party and wanted to reveal that active recruitment efforts were being made by the Liberal Party.
Who previously held the Kitchener Centre seat before Kelly DeRidder?
Mike Morrice of the Green Party was the incumbent MP for Kitchener Centre before losing the seat to DeRidder in the April 2025 federal election.
What was Prime Minister Mark Carney’s response to recent MPs crossing the floor to join the Liberal Party?
Prime Minister Mark Carney stated that the recent floor-crossers brought “a series of perspectives and expertise that is aiding … the government and the country at a crucial time.”
As the political landscape continues to evolve, will DeRidder’s stance resonate with voters in Kitchener Centre and influence the dynamics of future elections?
