Why the NDP keeps losing the trust of Canadians

After a crushing 2025 defeat, the NDP must return to its core values or risk becoming irrelevant

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In the wake of a disappointing 2025 federal election, Canada’s New Democratic Party faces a pivotal decision: continue trying to appeal to the political middle or return to its social democratic roots to rebuild trust with ordinary Canadians.

That trust was originally built on the NDP’s identity as a party for working people—one that championed public health care, fair wages and social justice. But in recent years, many Canadians feel the party has drifted from that foundation.

Heather McPherson, the NDP MP for Edmonton Strathcona and one of the few New Democrats re-elected in 2025, recently acknowledged the party’s shortcomings. In a candid social media post, she wrote, “I want you to tell me … what you want to see us do differently, what we need to do to be better, and what we need to do to make sure that you see yourself in our party in the next election.” Her sincerity is commendable—and necessary.

McPherson is right. Jagmeet Singh’s NDP brought about modest health care improvements but failed to address the broader economic and social concerns facing Canadians. At the same time, the party has stood out for its positions on global issues. Several of the NDP’s remaining MPs have been vocal in their support for Palestinian rights—a position that has gained visibility amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza. In contrast, the Liberals continue to permit arms shipments to Israel, while the Conservatives have maintained strong support for the Israeli government, often without publicly addressing the humanitarian consequences of the conflict.

The NDP could draw lessons from abroad, especially from New York City, where Zohran Mamdani, a democratic socialist and member of the New York State Assembly, recently won the Democratic mayoral primary against high-profile former New York state governor Andrew Cuomo. Mamdani’s campaign succeeded with a clear social democratic platform, a modest budget and a strong grassroots organization. His appeal to first-time voters demonstrates that principled leadership—not just political calculation—can win support.

There are clear parallels to past NDP leaders like Tommy Douglas and Jack Layton. Douglas didn’t just introduce universal health care in Saskatchewan; he oversaw significant improvements in infrastructure and living standards. Layton, whose life was cut short by cancer, was instrumental in securing Canada’s 2008 apology to Indigenous peoples for residential schools. His remarks that day in Parliament remain a powerful example of political leadership grounded in compassion and justice.

Their legacy is particularly relevant today, as Canada faces rising housing costs, intergenerational inequality and persistent wealth disparity. Many voters want action, including fairer tax policies targeting the ultra-wealthy. This is fertile ground for a renewed NDP vision.

If the NDP is serious about renewal, it must begin with leadership choices that reflect a wider range of voices. Efforts to discourage or disqualify candidates like activist and foreign policy critic Yves Engler could risk alienating supporters who want to see new ideas and new energy within the party. Ideas that speak to younger and disaffected voters must be part of the conversation, not excluded from it.

The party should also consider a broader realignment. Collaboration with the Green Party, for instance, could help unify progressive voters and build a platform that reflects shared priorities such as climate action, democratic reform and economic fairness.

McPherson’s openness to feedback is a positive step. She remains one of the most principled and respected MPs in Parliament. But the NDP’s renewal will require more than reflection: it needs bold, credible leadership and a clear commitment to the values that once made it a national force.

If the NDP hopes to be relevant in the next election, the time to act is now.

Gerry Chidiac specializes in languages and genocide studies and works with at-risk students. He received an award from the Vancouver Holocaust Education Centre for excellence in teaching about the Holocaust.