As the New Democratic Party (NDP) gears up to elect its new leader this weekend in Winnipeg, the stakes could not be higher. Following a dismal performance in the last federal election, where they secured a mere 6.3 per cent of the popular vote—their lowest since inception in 1961—the party finds itself at a crossroads. The upcoming convention could signal a much-needed revival or further entrenchment in irrelevance.
A Party in Decline
The NDP’s recent trajectory has been troubling. After the last federal election, the party’s representation in the House of Commons dwindled to just seven seats, resulting in the loss of official party status. This decline was compounded by the resignation of former leader Jagmeet Singh, who stepped down after failing to secure his seat in British Columbia.
In a further blow, recent weeks have seen Nunavut MP Lori Idlout switch allegiance to the Liberal Party, inching Prime Minister Mark Carney closer to a majority government. In Quebec, the party’s only MP east of Manitoba, Alexandre Boulerice, is reportedly considering a leap into provincial politics. A recent Angus Reid poll of 1,164 former NDP supporters revealed that 25 per cent now regard the party as irrelevant, while nearly 40 per cent believe its most impactful days are behind it.
The Candidates
With the party’s future hanging in the balance, five candidates are vying for the leadership position, each bringing a distinct vision for the NDP:
Avi Lewis
A climate activist and former television host, Lewis is spearheading the race, having raised over £1.2 million. Despite lacking a seat in Parliament, he comes from a politically rich lineage, with his grandfather being former federal NDP leader David Lewis. His policy proposals include implementing a Green New Deal, halting new oil production, and investing 2 per cent of Canada’s GDP to combat climate change.
Heather McPherson
Representing Edmonton Strathcona, McPherson is the only candidate currently serving in Parliament. Since her election in 2019, she has held various roles, including deputy house leader and foreign affairs critic. Her platform focuses on creating a federal Crown corporation for affordable housing, a renters’ bill of rights, and limiting corporate ownership of single-family homes.
Rob Ashton
Ashton, a seasoned dockworker and president of the International Longshore Workers Union Canada, is making his political debut. His key policies include tripling public and co-op housing and introducing a national jobs guarantee, which would ensure employment for all Canadians.
Tanille Johnston
The youngest contender at 38, Johnston is a city councillor and social worker from the We Wai Kai First Nation. She advocates for a guaranteed liveable basic income, tuition-free postsecondary education, and an end to fossil fuel subsidies. Johnston also supports electoral reform towards a proportional representation system.
Tony McQuail
An organic farmer and former education trustee, McQuail has run multiple unsuccessful campaigns for the NDP. His proposals include establishing a universal basic income, promoting communal housing, and advocating for a wealth tax.
Implications for the Party’s Future
The NDP stands at a pivotal moment, as it seeks not only to select a leader but to redefine its identity and relevance in a rapidly changing political landscape. The party’s ongoing struggles have led to growing apathy among its supporters, with nearly half of recent voters indicating they do not recognise the candidates.
The outcome of this leadership race could either rejuvenate the party or set it on a path of further decline, making it crucial for the new leader to resonate with both current and potential supporters.
Why it Matters
The NDP’s ability to revitalise itself is essential not just for the party, but for the broader Canadian political landscape. As the country grapples with pressing issues like climate change, housing affordability, and social justice, a strong and dynamic NDP could provide a much-needed counterbalance to the dominant Liberal and Conservative narratives. The choice made at this convention may well shape the future of left-wing politics in Canada for years to come, influencing policies that will affect the most vulnerable in society.
