MP James Lunney quits Conservative caucus over perceived threats to his religious beliefs
British Columbia MP James Lunney is leaving the Conservative caucus because of perceived threats to his religious freedom as a Christian.
Lunney had already announced that he would not seek another term in the upcoming federal election, but his resignation means he will sit as an Independent in Parliament for the remainder of his term.
“I will seek an opportunity to address the House in defence of my beliefs and the concerns of my faith community,” he wrote on his website.
Lunney wrote he is leaving the party because “the realm of politics at senior levels” have become hostile to “a Christian world-view.”
“It is clear that any politician or candidate of faith is going to be subjected to the same public scrutiny in coming elections,” he said. In February, Ontario Tory Rick Nicholls received flak from his own party when he said he didn’t believe in evolution.
On Feb. 28, Lunney tweeted to “stop calling #evolution fact.” His tweet was retweeted 98 times and the story was picked up by multiple media outlets, but not the Star.
Lunney wrote that comments he made about evolution on Twitter were “inflated by media” and “blended with other unrelated but alleged heretical statements.”
Lunney equated criticism of his beliefs with racial and religious bigotry.
“Such ignorance and bigotry cloaked in defence of science is as repugnant as bigotry of any other origin,” he wrote. “It is based in a false construct from another century and is a flagrant violation of a society that is multicultural, multi-racial and multi faith and strives to be accepting of differences.”
Lunney said the decision was his own, and that he will continue to vote alongside his Conservative colleagues.
“Given the circling trolls, I do not intend to entangle the most multi-racial, multicultural and multi-faith caucus in parliamentary history in my decision to defend my beliefs,” he said.
Lunney announced that he would not seek re-election in 2015 because the riding he has served since 2000, Nanaimo—Alberni, will have its border redrawn in the coming federal election.
