Former Canadian conservative MP Gladu joins Carney’s Liberals

In a statement released by the Liberal Party of Canada, Gladu said she made the decision after hearing from constituents who want “serious leadership and a real plan to build a stronger and more independent Canadian economy".

“That is why I have decided to join Prime Minister Mark Carney and Canada’s new government as the newest member of his caucus,” Gladu said.

Gladu, who has represented Sarnia, Lambton, Bkejwanong since 2015, said her decision was guided by what she believes is in the best interest of both her constituents and the country.

She emphasised her experience in engineering and international business, saying it would help advance the government’s priorities, including job creation, trade diversification, housing development and crime reduction.

“It is a privilege to have served as your Member of Parliament for more than a decade, and I have made a choice to do the best thing for our community’s priorities, and importantly, for our country,” she said.

Gladu also framed her move as an opportunity to take a more “constructive, collaborative approach” to governance, noting that her riding had historically elected members of the governing party for decades prior to her tenure in opposition.

In a statement posted on social media, Carney welcomed Gladu to the Liberal caucus, describing her as a “results-driven leader” whose experience would be valuable amid global economic uncertainty.

“Canada’s success will depend on how we build ambition into progress and strengths into sustained advantage,” Carney said. “Marilyn brings the practical, results-driven leadership this effort demands.”

He added that Gladu’s background in engineering and international business would help strengthen supply chains and support Canadian industry in a rapidly changing global economy.

Gladu has been elected in four consecutive federal elections since 2015 and has earned recognition from colleagues across party lines for her willingness to work collaboratively, Carney said.

Her defection marks a notable shift in Canada’s federal political landscape, as floor crossings between major parties remain relatively uncommon and can carry implications for party dynamics in Parliament.