Full Comment Mark Carney is about to get hammered left and right by populism
Apr 6, 2026
Warren Kinsella, seasoned Liberal strategist; Jenni Byrne, veteran Conservative campaign director; Kim Wright, longtime NDP organizer. They dissect Avi Lewis’s NDP revival and media skills. They debate populist policy ideas like government stores and affordability as a political weapon. They analyze Mark Carney’s governing style, risks of a majority, prorogation odds, caucus management, and looming economic pressure points.
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Avi Lewis Revives NDP Momentum
- Avi Lewis energised the NDP with nearly 80,000 votes and ~78% support, showing the party isn't dead.
- Kim Wright noted 2,000 convention attendees and emphasized the party's historical ability to rebound after apparent decline.
NDP Has Picked A Distinct Left Populist Lane
- Jenni Byrne called many NDP planks economically illiterate but acknowledged the party has clearly picked a lane.
- She highlighted a perceived retreat from traditional blue-collar outreach and a shift in the NDP's base.
Carney Stealing Ideas Creates Space For NDP
- Warren Kinsella argued Lewis's media skills and likability could expand NDP space because Mark Carney has stolen Conservative planks.
- He suggested ideological real estate opened by Carney benefits the NDP.