Nunavut’s Member of Parliament, Lori Idlout, has confirmed that she does not plan, at this time, to cross the floor to join the federal Liberal Party, despite having been approached by Liberal members and some of her own constituents to consider the move.
In an interview with CBC News, the New Democratic Party MP said the possibility has required serious reflection but that she has decided to remain with the NDP for now.
“I have decided at this point that I can’t. I’ve definitely been asked to consider it,” Idlout said, adding that the discussions have weighed heavily on her.
Idlout did not identify who specifically raised the idea of floor-crossing, but confirmed the conversations included both Liberal Party members and Nunavummiut. She emphasized that feedback from constituents has focused on ensuring that any decision she makes is rooted in what is best for the people of Nunavut.
The speculation follows recent high-profile floor-crossings in Ottawa, including Chris d’Entremont and Michael Ma, whose moves from the Conservative Party to the Liberals have left the governing party just one seat short of a majority in the House of Commons.
An emailed statement from the office of neighbouring Northwest Territories MP and Liberal cabinet minister Rebecca Alty clarified that Alty has not approached Idlout about crossing the floor. The statement noted that discussions between northern leaders over the past year have focused on shared priorities and practical collaboration to deliver results for Northerners.
The Liberal Party, when asked by CBC News about discussions with Idlout, said it remains open to working collaboratively with parliamentarians from all parties to strengthen Canada.
Idlout, who narrowly won the 2025 federal election by just 77 votes, said her role in opposition is central to her ability to advocate for Nunavut. She noted that being outside government allows her to speak freely and critically when the territory’s needs are not being met.
She also cited concerns with the Liberal government’s major projects legislation, the One Canadian Economy Act, particularly regarding its implications for Indigenous rights and the speed at which it was passed.
“I couldn’t do a good job representing Nunavummiut if I were forced to vote in favour of violating Indigenous peoples’ rights,” she said.
In addition, Idlout identified Arctic sovereignty and security, housing, and health care as priority issues where she intends to continue pressing the federal government. She has previously called for increased investment in the Canadian Rangers to strengthen Arctic security and reduce reliance on southern military deployments.
Political analyst Jerald Sabin noted that while floor-crossing can offer access to power and influence, it also carries political risks, including backlash from voters who supported a candidate under a different party banner.
For now, Idlout says her focus remains firmly on representing Nunavummiut from her current position in opposition. While she has not ruled out reconsidering in the future, she stressed that any such decision would be guided by the interests, rights, and long-term wellbeing of the people of Nunavut.