The Liberal MP who voted in favor of the Conservative’s motion to eliminate the carbon tax expressed his belief that the policy is negatively impacting rural Canadians and the Liberal Party’s chances of re-election. Liberal MP Ken McDonald stated on CBC’s “Power and Politics” that he made that decision because he thinks the current approach to the climate change incentive is causing a greater burden for people already struggling with affordability issues. McDonald revealed that many individuals he encounters express their lack of faith in the Liberal Party.
On October 4, a non-binding motion was introduced to repeal the carbon tax in order to reduce the cost of gas, groceries, and home heating. The motion was defeated with 209 votes against and 119 in favor, with the Liberals, New Democrats, Bloc Quebecois, and Greens voting against it. McDonald was the only Liberal MP who supported the motion, earning him praise from Conservative MPs. He had also voted in favor of a similar motion in October 2022.
McDonald explained that his vote against the policy was also in solidarity with Newfoundland and Labrador Premier Andrew Furey’s plea to the federal government to mitigate the tax’s impact on the province and Atlantic Canada. As the MP for Avalon since 2015 and the former mayor of Conception Bay South, McDonald emphasized that many individuals in his predominantly rural riding have expressed the financial burden the carbon tax has placed on them, hindering their ability to purchase essential items and heat their homes. He highlighted the difficulties faced by seniors living alone who resort to wrapping themselves in blankets due to the inability to afford heating fuel and protein sources like beef or chicken. Moreover, given that everything must be transported to Newfoundland by boat or truck, the increased fuel costs affect the price of all goods on store shelves.
The carbon tax is set to increase from $65 to $110 by 2026 and ultimately reach $170 by 2030. Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre argues that this tax will lead to higher transportation costs and subsequently result in more expensive consumer goods. To address the concerns of his constituents, McDonald previously lobbied Prime Minister Justin Trudeau for special policies such as a carbon tax rebate specifically tailored to his riding. He believes that if the Liberal Party fails to address Canadians’ concerns about the tax, they will lose not only seats in Newfoundland but across the country. McDonald suggests that the party needs to view the carbon tax through a “rural lens” and develop a satisfactory plan for Canadians. He acknowledges that finding a plan that appeals to rural regions may be challenging but emphasizes the importance of the government making an effort. McDonald concludes by saying that without addressing these concerns, the Liberal Party may not form the government if an election were to take place.