Manitoba NDP Member of Parliament Leah Gazan has officially thrown her support behind documentary filmmaker Avi Lewis in the race for the party’s leadership, becoming the first current MP to endorse a candidate. Gazan cited Lewis’s potential to revitalize the party and address issues like the rising cost of living and climate change as reasons for her endorsement.
Renowned environmentalist David Suzuki also endorsed Lewis recently, adding to the momentum of his campaign. With the Jan. 28 deadline for membership applications approaching, various other candidates in the NDP leadership race have garnered support from prominent figures in recent weeks.
Former Ontario MP Charlie Angus has backed Alberta MP Heather McPherson, emphasizing the need for experienced leadership to rebuild the party effectively. Meanwhile, union leader Rob Ashton has received the endorsement of the United Steelworkers union, a key ally of the NDP with significant political organizing capabilities.
