Social Worker Tanille Johnston Makes Historic Bid for Federal NDP Leadership
Tanille Johnston, a dedicated social worker and city councillor from Campbell River, B.C., has made history by launching her campaign for the leadership of the federal NDP.
In a recent news release, Johnston announced her candidacy, emphasizing her status as the first Indigenous woman to vie for the party’s top position. She is poised to inject a fresh wave of energy and drive real progressive change within the party and across Canada.
While Johnston faced a setback in the 2025 federal election as the NDP candidate for North Island—Powell River, losing to Conservative Aaron Gunn, she remains undeterred in her pursuit of leadership.
The vacant position arose after former party leader Jagmeet Singh stepped down following his defeat in the election, leaving the door open for new contenders to step forward.
Joining Johnston in the leadership race are union leader Rob Ashton, Alberta MP Heather McPherson, and documentarian Avi Lewis, each bringing their unique perspectives and visions for the party.
The anticipation is building as New Democrats gear up to select their new leader on March 29 at the party’s annual convention in Winnipeg, where the future direction of the NDP will be shaped.