By OFL Communications Department - https://www.flickr.com/photos/ontariofedlabour/24714731178/, CC BY 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=64268522
Interim leader Don Davies to guide caucus of seven MPs until March 2026 vote
The federal NDP will elect a new leader in March 2026, following a six-month leadership race set to begin in September. Candidates will be required to pay a $100,000 entry fee, part of an effort to raise funds and re-energize the party after its devastating showing in the April federal election. The NDP was reduced to just seven seats, its worst result in history, and lost official party status along with millions in campaign reimbursements and parliamentary funding.
Former leader Jagmeet Singh stepped down after losing his seat in the April 28 vote, leaving interim leader Don Davies to guide the party’s small caucus until a new leader is chosen. The federal executive and council finalized the race timeline this month, as party officials brace for a lengthy rebuilding phase. Human rights and labour lawyer Emilie Taman will lead a post-election review, with findings expected to be shared with party members by the end of the year.
Potential contenders include Edmonton MP Heather McPherson, who has publicly criticized the party’s strategy during the election. In a recent video, McPherson called the defeat a “wake-up call,” saying the NDP “played it safe” and failed to offer bold solutions at a time when Canadians were looking for leadership. Former MP Charlie Angus, who has ruled out a leadership run, called the loss “an unmitigated disaster” and said the party needs to refocus on grassroots organizing.
With morale low and finances strained, and a loss of official party status, the leadership race is being framed as both a test and opportunity, not just to find a new leader but to reconnect with disillusioned supporters, rebuild infrastructure and chart a new path forward. Party officials hope the contest will attract new voices and help rebuild trust among voters who turned away from the NDP this spring.
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