In a strategic move to revitalise the New Democratic Party (NDP), leader Avi Lewis has indicated that he is prioritising the party’s readiness for upcoming elections over his own pursuit of a parliamentary seat. With by-elections looming later this year in Ontario, British Columbia, and Quebec, Lewis is dedicating his efforts to supporting NDP candidates rather than seeking a spot on the ballot himself.
Preparing for Upcoming By-Elections
Since taking the helm of the NDP following its dismal performance in the 2025 federal election, Lewis has been resolute in his focus. “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,” he asserted during a recent interview in Montreal’s Plateau district. His current strategy involves extensive grassroots campaigning alongside candidates Pierre Céré and Nima Machouf in the upcoming Rosemont-La Petite-Patrie and Laurier-Ste-Marie by-elections, respectively.
Lewis has been immersing himself in the local culture, even undertaking rigorous French lessons to enhance his communication skills. These sessions not only focus on language but also involve analysing political interviews to refine his messaging. His commitment to this process signals a desire to engage effectively with Quebec voters, a demographic crucial to the NDP’s resurgence.
The Historical Context of NDP’s Challenges
The NDP’s decline in the last election, which saw the party reduced to a mere seven seats in the House of Commons, has left it with a significantly weakened position. Lewis has expressed concern over the current lack of representation, noting that the party’s presence has dwindled to a five-member caucus, leaving them without a voice in parliamentary committees. “The caucus and NDP supporters don’t want me tied to Ottawa when I can be out knocking on doors,” he explained, underscoring the importance of direct engagement with constituents.
Addressing the party’s electoral losses, Lewis attributed much of the NDP’s disarray to external factors, including economic anxiety linked to former U.S. President Donald Trump’s trade policies. However, he has also detected a shift among voters, noting signs of “buyer’s remorse” among former New Democrats who cast their votes for the Liberals in the last election. As he put it, “There are lots of progressive Liberals who are ready to come over.”
Polling Insights and Strategic Implications
Recent polling data from Angus Reid suggests a potential shift in voter sentiment, with approximately one in six 2025 Liberal voters indicating a willingness to support the NDP this time around. Climate change emerges as a significant priority for these voters, highlighting an opportunity for Lewis to position the NDP as a credible alternative.
The party’s approach in Montreal reflects a broader strategy to court progressive voters by taking bold stances on contentious issues, such as calling Israel’s military actions in Gaza a genocide and advocating for green energy initiatives. As Lewis prepares to canvass in other ridings, including Beaches-East York and North Vancouver-Capilano, he remains optimistic about the NDP’s prospects in the upcoming by-elections.
The Road Ahead
Lewis’s strategy involves not just immediate campaigning but also a vision for revitalising the party’s image among younger voters, who have recently become disillusioned with traditional political narratives. He believes that tapping into the frustrations of young Canadians facing housing crises and the threats posed by artificial intelligence and climate change could galvanise support for the NDP. “If we can excite young people to actually go out and vote… there could be a big surprise coming,” he remarked, indicating a potential shift in the political landscape that could disadvantage Conservative candidates.
As the NDP gears up for these pivotal by-elections, Lewis’s focus on coalition-building and grassroots activism may prove essential in reclaiming lost ground. His assertion that the party can draw votes from both the Liberals and Conservatives underlines a strategic approach that could alter the dynamics of the next federal election.
Why it Matters
The NDP’s ability to revive its fortunes hinges on how effectively it can re-engage disillusioned voters. Avi Lewis’s current campaign efforts, coupled with a focus on grassroots mobilization and strategic messaging, could redefine the party’s trajectory. As the political landscape evolves, the NDP’s resurgence is not merely about reclaiming seats; it represents a broader challenge to the status quo, offering voters an alternative that aligns with their values and priorities. The upcoming by-elections will serve as a crucial litmus test for the party’s future, potentially reshaping Canadian politics in the process.
