OTTAWA — Most candidates in the federal NDP leadership race say they are not in a hurry to secure a seat in the House of Commons if they win, choosing instead to focus on rebuilding the party and reconnecting with voters across the country.
Four of the five contenders — including filmmaker Avi Lewis, union leader Rob Ashton, farmer Tony McQuail and social worker Tanille Johnston — say strengthening grassroots support and preparing for the next election is their immediate priority rather than entering Parliament.
Lewis emphasized that the leadership race has helped reconnect the party with communities and everyday struggles faced by Canadians, adding that continuing this engagement is critical to building momentum ahead of the next federal election. Similarly, Johnston highlighted the need to nominate candidates early and strengthen local riding associations to attract volunteers and voter support.
The only candidate currently serving as an MP, Heather McPherson, disagrees with this approach, calling it “a little bit odd.” She argues that the role of party leader should include immediate participation in Parliament to hold the government accountable and represent party priorities during question period.
The debate reflects a broader strategic divide within the party — whether to prioritize grassroots rebuilding or parliamentary presence. Candidates like Ashton have stressed the importance of reconnecting directly with Canadians through face-to-face engagement, arguing that rebuilding trust cannot be achieved through social media alone.
The leadership race also comes amid internal discussions about policy direction, including past debates such as the “Leap Manifesto,” which has historically created tensions between federal and provincial wings of the party.
Voting in the NDP leadership race concludes on March 28, with the new leader set to be announced on March 29. All candidates have indicated they intend to run in the next federal election, even if they delay seeking a seat in the House of Commons.