The Bridge with Peter Mansbridge Reporter's Notebook -- Is This The Week The NDP Begins a Comeback?
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Mar 24, 2026 
Rob Russo, a policy-minded political analyst with an economist’s lens, and Althia Raj, a sharp federal politics journalist, dissect the NDP leadership race and its implications. They debate candidate differences, fundraising and membership dynamics. Conversation also covers where the NDP is losing ground, challenges in Quebec outreach, and what Canada misses without a stronger progressive voice.
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NDP Losing Ground To Both Major Parties
- The NDP is losing supporters to both the Liberals and Conservatives, shrinking its parliamentary capacity and influence in Question Period and committees.
- Rob Russo notes MPs crossing parties and potential retirements that make rebuilding caucus numbers urgent to regain resources and voice.
New Base Versus Old Heartland Tension
- Avi Lewis energized urban, educated environmentalists while Rob Ashton targeted disaffected blue‑collar workers who drifted Conservative.
- Russo warns Lewis's urban base may not reconnect traditional NDP heartlands in Saskatchewan and the Prairies.
Weak NDP Presence Narrows Parliamentary Debate
- The absence of a strong NDP caucus reduces progressive scrutiny in Parliament, leaving issues like privatization, refugee policy and child care underexamined.
- Althia Raj emphasizes procedural losses: no committee seats, fewer questions, and limited ability to call witnesses.