New “independent” senator was Liberal donor and critic of Stephen Harper

One of the two “independent senators” appointed by Justin Trudeau last has contributed thousands of dollars to left-wing political parties and was a vocal critic of Stephen Harper’s former government.

University of Saskatchewan law professor W. Brent Cotter was appointed last week to the Senate on the recommendation of the Independent Advisory Board for Senate Appointments, the Prime Minister’s Office said in a release.

While the PMO says the selection process aims to ensure senators are “independent” and “reflect Canada’s diversity,” Cotter appears to be a long-time supporter of left-wing parties – in particular the Liberals.

Cotter donated to six riding associations – three Liberal and three NDP – in Saskatchewan, Alberta and Nova Scotia in 2015, according to Elections Canada donor records. Five of these contributions were registered the month before that year’s federal election.