OTTAWA – The New Democratic Party (NDP) leadership candidates are diligently enhancing their French language proficiency in anticipation of their inaugural debate scheduled for November 27, 2025, in Montreal. As the party prepares for this significant event, the candidates are acutely aware of the importance of communicating effectively in both of Canada’s official languages.
The official candidates vying for the leadership include documentarian Avi Lewis, Alberta Member of Parliament Heather McPherson, union leader Rob Ashton, social worker Tanille Johnston, and organic farmer Tony McQuail. While each has varying levels of French language skills, none have claimed to be fully bilingual. This acknowledgment highlights their commitment to improving their language abilities to adequately represent a national party in a bilingual country.
During a recent NDP leadership forum held on October 22, 2025, in Ottawa, Avi Lewis notably addressed the first question posed to him in French. Nevertheless, a campaign spokesperson characterized his French proficiency as “not full bilingual,” indicating the challenges that may arise when appealing to French-speaking voters.
Former NDP strategist Karl Belanger has emphasized that the next leader of the party will encounter significant challenges in garnering support in Quebec without robust French language skills. Quebec, being a predominantly French-speaking province, plays a crucial role in Canadian politics, and the ability to communicate effectively in French is essential for any leader aiming to unite the party and expand its influence in that region.
The debate in Montreal will serve as a pivotal platform for the candidates, allowing them to showcase their abilities, not only in articulating their policy visions but also in engaging with the French-speaking electorate. As the candidates prepare, they are aware that their performance in both languages could be decisive in their pursuit of leadership.
In the current political climate, strengthening language skills can be viewed as a necessary strategy for the NDP to remain competitive in future elections. The party, known for advocating for progressive policies, is under pressure to resonate with diverse communities across Canada, including those in Quebec who may feel disconnected from its messaging without sufficient French representation.
The upcoming debate is not only a test of the candidates' policy knowledge and charisma but also a crucial opportunity to demonstrate their commitment to bilingualism—a core tenet of Canadian identity. As they continue to refine their language skills, the candidates aim to reassure party members and potential voters that they are prepared to lead a diverse and inclusive party in a bilingual nation.
As the campaign develops, the candidates' efforts to engage in French will likely influence public perception and voting behavior, underscoring the importance of language proficiency in the pursuit of political leadership in Canada.
