The New Democratic Party (NDP) is gearing up for a significant leadership contest, with five candidates officially in the running to succeed the outgoing leader. As the party grapples with a stark reduction to just seven seats in the House of Commons, the next leader will face formidable challenges. The leadership election is scheduled for March 29, following a climactic debate on February 19.
Candidates in the Spotlight
Five hopefuls have received the green light to compete for the NDP leadership: Rob Ashton, Tanille Johnston, Avi Lewis, Heather McPherson, and Tony McQuail. Notably, Bianca Mugyenyi has submitted her application but is still undergoing vetting, having entered the fray after her husband, activist Yves Engler, was barred from running.
The candidates are now focused on two primary objectives—selling party memberships and fundraising. The deadline for new memberships is set for January 28, coinciding with the final $25,000 instalment of the required $100,000 entry fee.
Rob Ashton: Champion of Labour Rights
Rob Ashton, currently the national president of the International Longshore Workers Union Canada, has spent over three decades as a dockworker in Vancouver. His leadership bid is grounded in a commitment to revitalising the party’s labour roots. Ashton advocates for worker representation on corporate boards and aims to overhaul the Temporary Foreign Worker Program, prioritising protections for labourers.
He envisions tripling the number of public, non-profit, and co-op homes, aiming for a 20% increase in non-market housing supply by 2040. Additionally, Ashton is calling for a guarantee of employment for all Canadians who seek it and a shift towards utilising Canadian materials in construction projects.
His campaign has garnered support from influential groups, including the United Steelworkers union and notable political figures like B.C. Transportation Minister Mike Farnworth.
Tanille Johnston: A Voice for Indigenous Issues
Tanille Johnston, a city councillor and social worker from Campbell River, B.C., stands out as the only Indigenous woman in the race. Her platform emphasizes electoral reform, advocating for proportional representation and the establishment of a non-partisan citizens’ assembly.
Johnston’s vision for the NDP includes free postsecondary education and enhancing job security through strengthened competition laws. She aims to make the party more inclusive by proposing free memberships and conventions, alongside a member-driven platform. Her endorsements include prominent Indigenous leaders, such as former Manitoba deputy premier Eric Robinson.
Avi Lewis: The Populist Advocate
Avi Lewis, an activist and documentary filmmaker, brings a populist approach to the leadership race. Known for his involvement with the Leap Manifesto, which calls for a transition away from fossil fuels, Lewis’s campaign has kicked off with a strong critique of corporate executives.
He proposes a Green New Deal aimed at creating one million jobs by investing 2% of Canada’s GDP to combat climate change. Furthermore, Lewis champions publicly owned grocery stores to tackle affordability and urges the creation of one million social and co-op homes over the next five years. His endorsements include environmentalist David Suzuki and MP Leah Gazan.
Heather McPherson: The Pragmatic Progressive
Heather McPherson, an incumbent MP and former foreign affairs critic, has positioned herself as a pragmatic option for the NDP. Her platform calls for inclusivity within the party, asserting the need to avoid purity tests that could alienate potential supporters.
McPherson is advocating for a ban on corporate ownership of single-family homes and large rental portfolios, alongside the establishment of a national public builder to enhance affordable housing. She also seeks to create guaranteed work placements for youth and extend financial support for non-university learners. Her campaign has attracted endorsements from notable figures like former Timmins-James Bay MP Charlie Angus.
Tony McQuail: The Green Progressive
Tony McQuail, an organic farmer with a storied history in federal elections, identifies as a “green progressive.” His policy priorities include implementing proportional representation, a wealth tax, and measures to close tax loopholes to bolster Canada’s healthcare system.
He advocates for a universal basic income and sustainable housing initiatives, positioning himself as an environmentally conscious candidate. McQuail has received endorsements from grassroots leaders and works cooperatively with Johnston to meet fundraising thresholds.
Why it Matters
The upcoming leadership race is crucial for the NDP, particularly in the aftermath of a significant electoral setback. With a mere seven seats, the party must revitalise its base and articulate a compelling vision for the future. The candidates’ diverse platforms reflect varying approaches to traditional NDP values, indicating a potential shift in the party’s identity. As they vie for leadership, their ability to resonate with voters and unite the party will be pivotal in shaping the NDP’s trajectory leading into the next election cycle.
