As the NDP MPs gather in Toronto for their autumn caucus retreat, the party is facing challenges both politically and financially. The Federal New Democrats are working to clear their election debts while their leader remains without a seat in the House of Commons. Additionally, the party’s already small caucus has shrunk further with one MP defecting to the Liberals and another departing.
Despite this negative outlook within the Ottawa political sphere, NDP Leader Avi Lewis and others believe in the party’s potential for a resurgence, especially in Toronto. Lewis expressed optimism following a recent byelection in Toronto’s Beaches—East York riding, where the NDP tripled their vote share compared to the 2025 general election.
Lewis declared, “We are back,” highlighting the party’s progress and indicating a positive trajectory for the NDP’s rebuilding efforts. The party’s focus on urban issues such as the cost of living, housing, environmental concerns, and climate action aligns well with the demographics of Toronto, according to polling analyst Éric Grenier.
There is speculation that Lewis may consider running for a Toronto seat in the future, particularly in areas like Davenport and Parkdale. The party’s emphasis on year-round community organizing and engagement, rather than solely during elections, is seen as a strategic approach to building lasting connections with voters and volunteers.
While the NDP faces challenges in some regions, including disappointing results in other byelections, the party’s overall outlook has improved compared to the previous election cycle. The NDP’s shift towards a more community-centric approach and focus on key urban issues may pave the way for their resurgence in Toronto and beyond.
