Voting is underway for New Democrats to select a new federal leader, with five candidates vying to replace Jagmeet Singh. The party’s membership has grown to approximately 100,000, an increase from 60,000 in September 2025 when the leadership race began.
A Party in Rebuilding Mode
The NDP is working to rebuild after a significant loss in the last federal election, which resulted in the party losing official party status in the House of Commons and being represented by only seven MPs. Former NDP director of communications, Mélanie Richer, expressed optimism about the party’s future, stating, “That gives me hope that despite the election result, the NDP is here to stay.”
According to polls analyst Éric Grenier of TheWrit.ca, the New Democrats currently poll between 5 and 10 per cent, a level consistent with their performance on election night. Grenier described rebuilding the party as a “monumental” task, emphasizing the need for the NDP to “get relevant again.”
Richer believes the next leader must broaden their appeal beyond the existing membership base, stating, “If you’re not able to speak to people who don’t hold a membership card, you’re not going to get us any further ahead.”
The Candidates
Among the front-runners, Heather McPherson, the only current Member of Parliament in the race, highlighted her electoral success, stating she is “the only one that has beat Conservatives three times.” Avi Lewis, another prominent candidate, has indicated he would prioritize understanding the party’s financial situation and preparing for the next election, even if it means not immediately seeking a seat in the House of Commons.
Other candidates include Rob Ashton, a dockworker and union leader seeking to reconnect with labour voters; Tanille Johnston, a social worker and city councillor who is the first Indigenous woman to contend for the leadership; and Tony McQuail, an organic farmer advocating for a holistic approach to policy, including climate change.
Voting will continue until the NDP’s convention in Winnipeg, where the new leader will be announced on March 29.
Membership Termination
Former leadership hopeful Yves Engler announced over the weekend that the NDP terminated his membership. Engler, who was previously rejected as a candidate, stated the decision was due to his “internationalist anti-imperialist perspectives” which he claims the NDP opposes. He added he was not permitted to challenge the decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will the new NDP leader be announced?
The new leader will be announced on March 29 at the NDP’s convention in Winnipeg.
How has the NDP’s membership changed since the leadership race began?
The NDP’s membership has increased to approximately 100,000 people, up from 60,000 in September 2025.
What is considered the biggest challenge facing the next NDP leader?
According to Éric Grenier, a polls analyst with TheWrit.ca, the biggest challenge for the NDP is simply to “get relevant again.”
What qualities do you believe are most crucial for a leader to effectively rebuild a political party following a significant electoral defeat?
