On Wednesday, the NDP leadership race progresses with the party’s inaugural candidate forum featuring five contenders. Although not a traditional debate, the event promises a “worker-first forum” organized by the Canadian Labour Congress and moderated by its president, Bea Bruske.
The forum serves as an initial indicator of the front-runners in the NDP leadership contest. The five party-sanctioned candidates set to participate will provide insights into their platforms.
Rob Ashton, a B.C. dockworker and head of the International Longshore and Warehouse Union Canada, is a dark horse in the race. He distinguishes himself as a “working-class labour candidate” rather than a typical politician, known for his straightforward and unfiltered communication style.
At 38, Tanille Johnston stands out as the youngest contender. Trained as a social worker, she emphasizes transforming the NDP into a bold and progressive force, advocating against environmentally harmful projects like oil pipelines.
Avi Lewis, a renowned TV presenter and activist, brings a wealth of experience to the race. His campaign focuses on unveiling progressive policies, such as a wealth tax and public options for essential services, aligning with his vision for a Green New Deal.
Heather McPherson, an Edmonton NDP MP, enters the race with a strong foundation of support from within the party. Positioned as the establishment candidate, she aims to broaden the party’s appeal and foster inclusivity.
Tony McQuail, a farmer from Ontario, prioritizes environmental conservation in his campaign. With a grassroots approach and a commitment to core NDP values, he advocates for collaboration between the NDP and the Green Party.
Yves Engler, an activist and author, expresses interest in participating in the forum despite not yet submitting official candidacy documents. Engler seeks inclusion in the event, highlighting his pro-worker platform and fundraising efforts, though facing warnings about accepting contributions prematurely.
Overall, the NDP leadership race showcases a diverse field of candidates with unique perspectives and priorities, setting the stage for a dynamic and engaging competition.