Avi Lewis, the newly appointed leader of the New Democratic Party (NDP), is taking his time in stepping into the fray of Parliament. Four months into his leadership, he is prioritising the party’s preparation for upcoming elections over securing a seat in the House of Commons. As several by-elections loom on the horizon—scheduled for August 31—Lewis is actively campaigning in Montreal while deliberately opting out of running himself.
Prioritising Party Readiness
Lewis, who assumed leadership of the NDP after its significant defeat in the 2025 federal elections, has made it clear that his immediate focus lies in revitalising the party rather than pursuing personal political ambitions. In a candid interview in Montreal’s Plateau neighbourhood, he stated, “I think there will be a point in the next year where I feel we’re election-ready across the country. We want to run serious campaigns everywhere.” This approach signals a thoughtful strategy aimed at rebuilding the party’s credibility and presence before the next general election.
The three by-elections set for late August will be crucial for the NDP, particularly in Ontario, British Columbia, and Quebec. While Lewis will be actively canvassing in these ridings, he is not placing himself on the ballot, indicating a preference for a broader, more strategic focus on party organisation and outreach.
Immersing in the Local Culture
In a concerted effort to connect with constituents, Lewis has spent recent weeks in Montreal, where he is not only campaigning but also immersing himself in the French language. He has been taking intensive French lessons, dedicating time each day to improve his political communication skills. “I’ve made a real effort to stay in French here by knocking on doors in these two by-elections that are coming up,” he remarked, highlighting his commitment to engaging with the predominantly Francophone electorate.
During these lessons, he has been analysing media interviews, including those with prominent figures such as former Liberal cabinet minister Steven Guilbeault, who recently announced his resignation as MP for Laurier-Ste-Marie. Understanding the nuances of Québécois French and political discourse is part of Lewis’s strategy to resonate with voters in a province where language is often a defining factor.
Rebuilding the NDP’s Standing
The NDP’s position in Parliament has suffered dramatically since the last election, where it was reduced to a mere seven seats. Post-election shifts have seen additional losses, including Nunavut MP Lori Idlout’s switch to the Liberals and Alexandre Boulerice’s departure from the NDP caucus. With a mere five-member caucus, Lewis is acutely aware of the need to restore the party’s visibility and influence, particularly in parliamentary committees.
He attributes the NDP’s steep decline in support to external factors, such as the anxiety stemming from the trade war initiated by former U.S. President Donald Trump. However, he also perceives a growing disenchantment among progressive voters who once turned to the Liberals. “There are lots of progressive Liberals who are ready to come over,” Lewis asserted, suggesting that the NDP could reclaim lost ground in the next election.
Signs of Hope in Polling Data
Recent polling data from Angus Reid suggests a potential shift in voter sentiment, indicating that approximately one in six individuals who voted Liberal in 2025 might now consider supporting the NDP. Notably, climate change remains a top priority for half of these voters, which aligns with the NDP’s platform. Lewis hopes to leverage this momentum, especially in urban centres like Montreal, where progressive values resonate strongly.
“Our aim is to excite young people to actually go out and vote,” Lewis stated, recognising that mobilising younger demographics could be pivotal. He sees a renewed interest from younger Canadians facing economic challenges, including the high cost of housing and the impacts of climate change. This demographic, he believes, may be instrumental in shifting the political landscape in favour of the NDP.
Why it Matters
Lewis’s strategy of focusing on party revival rather than immediate electoral gain reflects a long-term vision for the NDP. By embedding himself within the communities he hopes to serve and honing his communication skills in French, he is not only preparing for the upcoming by-elections but also laying the groundwork for a robust comeback in future elections. If successful, this approach could redefine the NDP’s role in Canadian politics, appealing to a broader base while challenging both the Liberals and Conservatives for progressive votes. As the political landscape evolves, the NDP’s ability to adapt and resonate with voters will be crucial in reclaiming its standing in the House of Commons.
