NDP members will choose their next leader in March 2026

OTTAWA—On Thursday, the NDP’s Federal Council met to ratify the rules governing the 2026 leadership race that will see the next leader of the party elected.

“I am very proud of the work our council has done to put together the rules that will allow members to choose our next leader,” said Mary Shortall, NDP President. “We’re excited that the will of the members was so clearly reflected in our deliberations. Council members took the time to ensure the process best reflects the party’s needs. They brought forward the many perspectives they’ve been hearing, which informed our discussions.

“This is a crucial first step in what will be an important opportunity for New Democrats to come together, rebuild, and elect our new leader.”

While the full set of rules will be finalized in the coming days, the Federal Council agreed on several key elements:

• The NDP leadership race will officially begin in September 2025, with a new leader to be elected no later than March 29, 2026—coinciding with the 2026 NDP Convention in Winnipeg, where leadership candidates will have a final opportunity to present their vision to members;
• The entry fee for leadership candidates will be set at $100,000, demonstrating candidates’ organizational and fundraising capacity;
• Strong regulations will govern the role of third parties in the race, in light of troubling allegations and credible information about foreign interference in past Conservative and Liberal leadership and nomination contests.

“I invite all NDP members—and future members—to take part in this pivotal moment in our party’s history,” added Shortall. “Together, we can rebuild a stronger NDP focused on delivering real relief for working Canadians and standing up to corporate greed.”

The final leadership rules will be posted on the NDP website prior to the official launch of the leadership race.