Brian Hirtle expressed strong disapproval of Acadie-Annapolis MP Chris d'Entremont's switch to the Liberal Party, calling the move self-serving and disrespectful to the community.
Hirtle, a resident of Viewmount and former president of the electoral district association, worked closely with d’Entremont during his three election victories for the Conservative Party. He said:
“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.”
Hirtle described the decision to cross the floor as a betrayal to the residents who supported d'Entremont. He emphasized the collective effort behind securing the MP seat:
“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.”
He added that the team was proud to keep that Conservative seat in Nova Scotia but believes d’Entremont has squandered it by switching parties.
Although Hirtle and d’Entremont have been friends and colleagues, he is unsure how their relationship will be affected moving forward.
Hirtle mentioned that many young adults, who voted for d’Entremont for the first time in the April election, now feel deeply betrayed.
“He feels very betrayed.”
Author’s summary: Brian Hirtle condemns Chris d'Entremont’s party switch as a selfish move that betrays the hard work and trust of his community and supporters.