Candidates in the NDP leadership race are beginning to highlight their differences as they wrap up efforts to attract new members. The deadline for membership registration to participate in the party’s March election is fast approaching. With the task of enrolling new members nearly complete, candidates are now focusing on persuading eligible NDP members why they should receive their support.
During a recent news conference, Heather McPherson expressed her intention, if elected as NDP leader, to ensure that the federal party does not undermine its provincial counterparts. McPherson emphasized the importance of rebuilding relationships with provincial NDP branches, citing past disagreements between the federal NDP and parties in Saskatchewan, Alberta, and British Columbia on issues like oil and gas development.
While not mentioning Avi Lewis by name, McPherson’s remarks were likely aimed at her leadership competitor. Lewis, known for his stance against increasing fossil fuel production, has been drawing growing crowds at his events across the country. His campaign has successfully raised over $1 million and attracted large audiences, as seen during a recent gathering in Toronto.
Lewis, who advocates for an “anti-capitalist movement,” has been promoting policies such as a public option for grocery stores and increased government intervention in failing markets. In contrast, McPherson highlighted her campaign’s grassroots outreach, prioritizing connections with NDP members nationwide, especially in smaller communities often overlooked by other candidates.
Rob Ashton, another contender in the race, criticized Lewis directly, expressing concerns about the direction Lewis’s leadership might take the party. Ashton’s campaign focuses on repositioning the NDP as a party representing workers’ interests, aiming to regain support from organized labor lost to the Conservatives in previous elections.
Despite being considered underdogs in the race, candidates Tanille Johnston and Tony McQuail have persevered, advocating for policies like a guaranteed livable income and emphasizing environmental issues, respectively. Both candidates stress the importance of unity and shared values among NDP members, downplaying the need for internal conflicts as the leadership race nears its conclusion.