Former CPC Quebec MP Says Poilievre Ideals, "not compatible"

72 hours after winning the leadership of the Conservative Party of Canada, Pierre Poilievre will have to deal with the fall out of Quebec MP Alain Rayes leaving the party.

Rayes announced in a statement that he has informed the House of Commons speaker that he is leaving the Conservative Party to sit as an independent MP.

The Quebec MP said he respects the party's decision but, "Some of my political ideals, values and convictions are not compatible with the new path undertaken by our political formation.

"I leave without bitterness and I remain driven by the deep desire to continue to serve the population on the political scene, and this, with the same rigor, passion and dedication as usual," Rayes added.

Rayes was first elected in 2015, and has been re-elected in 2019 and 2021. He currently represent the riding of Richmond-Arthabaska. Prior to entering federal politics, he ran for the Aciton Democratique a party that merged with the CAQ provincially in 2012.

He also served as Mayor of Victoriaville from 2009 to 2016.

During the 2022 Conservative Leadership Race, Rayes endorsed former Quebec Premier Jean Charest.