Tanille Johnston, a Liǧʷiłdax̌ʷ woman from the WeWaiKai First Nation, became the fourth confirmed candidate in the NDP’s leadership contest on Wednesday.
Johnston declared herself to be the first Indigenous woman in the party’s history to run for the job of leader.
Jagmeet Singh, who led the NDP through three federal elections, stepped down after losing his own seat in April, which brought the party’s worst-ever result in terms of both seats and popular vote.
Dockworker and union leader Rob Ashton, former Vancouver Centre candidate Avi Lewis and Edmonton–Strathcona MP Heather McPherson are the other approved leadership candidates to date.
Johnston described herself as “a social worker, a mother, and a bold new voice for the future of the NDP.”
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A Campbell River city councillor, she said she wanted to “unite the party, re-energize its grassroots and inspire Canadians nationwide.”
Johnston ran in the North Island–Powell River riding in April’s election, losing to Conservative Aaron Gunn. Gunn received 38.8 percent of the vote to Johnston’s 32.6 percent.
“Throughout her career, Johnston has been a tireless champion for social equity and Indigenous rights,” a news release announcing her candidacy stated.
“Her campaign launch signals a clear break from the status quo, prioritizing authenticity and a leadership style rooted in integrity, inclusion and inspiration.”
Candidates technically have until the end of January to meet the criteria for inclusion on the party’s ballot, though in practice they’re expected to announce sooner rather than later. Debates among the declared contenders are expected to take place later in the fall.
NDP members will elect a new leader at a convention in Winnipeg on March 29, 2026.
