OTTAWA — Three of the five candidates for the New Democratic Party (NDP) leadership had their first in-person discussion at the Douglas Coldwell Layton Foundation gala, providing insights into their policies ahead of the upcoming French debate next month.
Rob Ashton, Avi Lewis, and Heather McPherson participated in the forum, while Tanille Johnston and Tony McQuail were unable to attend. The candidates expressed varying degrees of agreement on several key issues, including the importance of communicating more plainly about party policies and enhancing the role of riding associations in decision-making.
Emerging differences among the candidates were evident during the forum. Avi Lewis argued that Canada should not expand fossil fuel production, asserting that the party has been vague in its energy policy communications. He reflected on the past leadership of Thomas Mulcair and Jagmeet Singh, suggesting that their mixed messages regarding pipelines have negatively impacted the party's standing, particularly in provinces like British Columbia, where environmental concerns over fossil fuel projects are significant.
Lewis, who previously ran unsuccessfully for the NDP in Vancouver during the 2021 and 2025 elections, emphasized the need for clearer energy policies to avoid further damage to the party's credibility with voters.
Rob Ashton presented a more nuanced view, acknowledging the necessity of transitioning towards a green economy but recognizing the fossil fuel sector's role in supporting numerous families. He stated that new projects could be pursued, provided they obtain proper Indigenous consent and adhere to environmental regulations. However, Ashton clarified that his leadership would be guided by the party's conventions and membership rather than his personal agenda.
“Our campaign follows what the New Democratic Party convention says. Period,” Ashton asserted, emphasizing the importance of member input in shaping party leadership and policy direction.
McPherson, on the other hand, focused on job creation for young people, advocating for an expansion of the Canada Summer Jobs Program to operate year-round. She highlighted the pressing employment crisis among youth, particularly in Alberta, and underscored the need for increased investment in mentorship and apprenticeship programs as well as making post-secondary education more accessible and affordable for young Canadians.
The candidates are scheduled for another meeting in Montreal for the first official debate on November 27, with the impending requirement to meet the second of four fundraising deadlines, each set at $25,000, by November 13.
The NDP's annual policy convention will take place in Winnipeg from March 27 to 29, culminating in the selection of a new party leader. This event is anticipated to further clarify candidates' positions and shape the future direction of the NDP.
