Heather McPherson officially joined the NDP leadership race on Sunday, declaring her goal to unite the party and steer them away from their recent poor performance in the federal elections. McPherson, the second prominent figure to announce candidacy after Jagmeet Singh’s resignation, is running alongside activist and renowned journalist Avi Lewis, who initiated his campaign over a week ago.
Although McPherson may not have the same level of recognition as Lewis, she stands out as the leading candidate by virtue of being the only contender currently holding a seat in the House of Commons. Other contenders listed on the Elections Canada website include Rob Ashton and political activist Yves Engler.
Choosing to launch her campaign in her electoral district of Edmonton-Strathcona, McPherson emphasized a vision for a federal New Democratic Party that fosters a sense of unity and family. In her speech obtained by CBC News, McPherson reflected on her upbringing, highlighting her parents’ inclusive approach to family gatherings.
Throughout her address, McPherson underscored the importance of inclusivity in a political landscape marked by division. While not outlining specific policy directions, she reiterated her commitment to advocating for fair wages, affordable housing, lower grocery prices, and robust public healthcare and education.
Drawing on her experience as the NDP’s foreign policy critic, McPherson emphasized her dedication to fighting for justice globally, mentioning her efforts in countries like Ukraine and Palestine. She criticized divisive politics and emphasized the need to bring people together, contrasting the party’s past successes with a call for renewed inspiration and unity.
Addressing the recent election outcomes, McPherson stressed the need for the NDP to evolve and connect with a broader audience. She urged a shift towards inclusive dialogue and community engagement, emphasizing the importance of grassroots support and member investment.
Concluding her speech, McPherson highlighted the urgency for preparedness, noting that an election could be imminent and calling for a leader who is equipped to lead a robust campaign.