Quebec Senator Richard Martel has rejoined the Opposition caucus by aligning with the Conservative Senate group, as confirmed by Senator Leo Housakos, the Senate’s Opposition leader. Martel, who transitioned from the House of Commons to the Senate in July following an appointment by Prime Minister Mark Carney, had not disclosed his Senate group affiliation until now.
Expressing his enthusiasm, Martel stated his delight in collaborating with his Conservative counterparts in the Senate and eagerly anticipates contributing to the national security, defense, and veterans affairs committee. His departure prompted a by-election in his former constituency of Chicoutimi-Le Fjord, which the Liberals clinched in August, bolstering their representation in the House of Commons.
Upon commencement, all new senators initially enter the upper chamber as Independents, gradually aligning with a Senate group within a few weeks of assuming office.