McPherson’s NDP leadership bid secures most ex-MP support, but Lewis nabs only caucus nod

NDP MP Leah Gazan's endorsement of Avi Lewis makes her the only caucus member behind a candidate. NDP MP Heather McPherson is backed by 12 former MPs, including longtime colleague Charlie Angus.

NDP leadership candidate Heather McPherson, centre, is leading in endorsements, followed by Avi Lewis, left, and Rob Ashton. New Democrats will select their new leader at the end of March at the party's convention in Winnipeg, Man.The Hill Times photographs by Andrew Meade and illustration by Neena Singhal

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BY ELEANOR WAND

January 22, 2026

NDP MP and leadership candidate Heather McPherson is leading the five-contestant pack in endorsements, with 12 former MPs backing her bid, while next-closest candidates Avi Lewis and Rob Ashton have a fraction of the support from those with federal political experience.

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