Progressive Liberals welcome Gladu and other Conservative floor crossers

MONTREAL — Progressive Liberal MPs at the party’s national convention in Montreal are extending an olive branch to former Conservatives who have crossed the floor.

Former environment minister Steven Guilbeault said while he was “surprised” that MP Marilyn Gladu left the Conservatives to join his party, he’s confident she stands with the party’s values.

Gladu became the fifth opposition MP to cross the floor to the Liberals this week, surprising many Liberals and Tories familiar with her reputation as a staunch conservative.

Liberal MP Karina Gould said she will give Gladu the benefit of the doubt and assume she understands and shares her new party’s values.