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Progressive Conservative MHA Keith Russell announced Monday he is crossing the floor and will sit as an independent member rather than with government.
“I make this decision with some sadness but with a clear conscience,” said Russell, who represents the Labrador district of Lake Melville.
Russell said his first responsibility was to the people in his district.
“There are moments in public life where we must listen to our conscience and put the people we represent first,” he read from a prepared speech.
He promised to continue to be a strong voice in the House of Assembly, “while continuing to uphold the conservative values that always have guided my public service.”
Newly independent MHA Keith Russell shakes hands with fellow Labrador MHA Lisa Dempster, a Liberal, in the House of Assembly on Sept. 14, 2026. (Patrick Butler/Radio-Canada)
During the recess, workers could be seen physically lifting a desk to another section of the House floor. Russell could be seen shaking hands with Liberal MHA and Opposition House Leader Lisa Dempster.
Premier Tony Wakeham, who called Russell’s departure from the party “disappointing” for those who elected him, said he didn’t know it was coming.
“There was no discussion with Mr. Russell prior to the announcement. He was in our caucus this morning, and he’s decided he wants to sit as an independent and that’s his choice,” Wakeham said, speaking with reporters just outside the House of Assembly at about 11:30 a.m.
Russell’s announcement came at the start of the House of Assembly special sitting on Churchill River power.
The House of Assembly went into recess immediately following the announcement, one made just after terms for the special sitting were read in.
NDP Leader Jim Dinn was the first politician to speak to reporters after a recess was called following Russell’s decision.
“I can honestly say I didn’t see that one coming,” he said.
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