A collective of NDP organizers and former MPs is urging backers to transfer donations from the main party to local riding associations. They highlight that hundreds of ridings are ineligible for rebates on campaign expenses due to the party’s poor performance in the 2025 federal election.
Named Reclaim Canada’s NDP, the group stated in a press release issued on Saturday that Canadians indicated the NDP as an unattainable political choice in the recent election. They advocate for redirecting funds directly to riding associations to empower progressive community organizers in rebuilding the NDP effectively and fairly, free from bureaucratic entanglements with the central party.
According to Elections Canada guidelines, a candidate’s campaign can receive reimbursement if they were elected or attained a minimum of 10 percent of valid votes. However, Reclaim Canada’s NDP pointed out that less than 50 ridings out of 343 met this reimbursement threshold, posing a risk for the party in upcoming elections.
Ji Won Jung, a spokesperson for the group, expressed concerns that not only was the recent election challenging for the NDP but also millions of Canadians supporting the party might struggle for representation in future elections. Additionally, the NDP faces a challenge in the House of Commons as its caucus is too small to be recognized as an official party, resulting in funding cuts for essential party functions.
Reclaim Canada’s NDP also criticized the party’s upper management for various controversies and highlighted the need for structural changes post-election. They aim to persuade a percentage of the party’s federal donor base to redirect their donations to local riding associations, as outlined on their website.
The group offers a template for donors to communicate their decision to support the NDP at the local level until trust is rebuilt. The initiative seeks to foster grassroots engagement and unity within the party, emphasizing a shared vision for a better future for all Canadians.
