The New Democratic Party has elected Avi Lewis as its new federal leader, marking a significant moment for the party as it seeks to rebuild and re-establish its presence on the national political stage.
Lewis secured a decisive victory with 56 per cent of the vote, earning the support of 39,734 party members through a ranked ballot system. The announcement was made at the party’s national convention in Winnipeg, where supporters gathered to hear his vision for the future of the NDP.
In his victory speech, Lewis called for unity within the party and emphasized the urgent need to address economic inequality, rising costs of living and climate change. He positioned the NDP as a party committed to serving everyday Canadians, stating that the party must stand up for “the many, not the money.”
A Vancouver-based documentary filmmaker, journalist and educator, Lewis brings a diverse background to the leadership role. He has previously worked with major media organizations including CBC and Al Jazeera, and currently teaches at the University of British Columbia. He is also widely known for his advocacy work on climate justice and as a co-founder of the Leap Manifesto.
Lewis outlined an ambitious policy agenda focused on tackling wealth inequality, improving housing affordability and accelerating the transition to a clean energy economy. Key proposals include implementing a wealth tax on Canada’s highest earners, introducing national rent controls, expanding public transit options and investing in a nationwide clean energy grid.
However, his leadership comes at a challenging time for the NDP. The party currently holds only seven seats in the House of Commons, well below the threshold required for official party status. Lewis will also face the immediate task of securing a seat in Parliament, having previously run unsuccessfully in two federal elections.
Reactions to his leadership have been mixed, with some provincial NDP leaders expressing concerns about his stance on energy and economic policy. Despite these challenges, Lewis expressed confidence in the party’s ability to reconnect with Canadians and rebuild its base.
“Our party is back and our tent is growing,” Lewis said, calling on members and supporters to work together to strengthen the NDP’s presence across the country.
As the party looks ahead, Lewis’s leadership signals a shift toward a more activist-driven and policy-focused approach, with a strong emphasis on economic justice, climate action and public services. The coming months will be critical as he works to unify the party, expand its appeal and position the NDP for future electoral success.