Former Staff Member Criticizes d'Entremont's Party Switch
Brian Hirtle expressed strong disapproval of Acadie-Annapolis MP Chris d'Entremont’s decision to join the Liberal Party, calling it “self-serving.”
Reaction from a Former Campaigner
Hirtle, a Viewmount resident, was deeply surprised by the news. He had supported d'Entremont in all three of his federal election victories in Acadie-Annapolis and served as the electoral district association president before retiring six months ago.
“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.”
He considered the switch a major betrayal to the community that backed d'Entremont.
Community Effort Undermined
Hirtle highlighted the collective effort needed to elect an MP, involving many hardworking campaigners across the constituency.
“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 the team was proud to keep the only Conservative seat in Nova Scotia until d’Entremont’s defection.
Personal Impact and Uncertain Future
Despite a history of friendship and collaboration with d’Entremont, Hirtle is uncertain how future encounters will unfold after this political shift.
He also noted the disappointment felt by some young voters who backed d’Entremont for the first time in April.
“He feels very betrayed.”
Brian Hirtle’s comments reflect a sense of personal and community disillusionment with d'Entremont's floor-crossing.
Summary: Brian Hirtle condemns Chris d'Entremont’s switch to the Liberals as a betrayal to the community that supported his Conservative victories, underscoring the teamwork behind electoral success.