Grassroots NDP group calls on party faithful to redirect donations to local riding associations
A group of NDP organizers and former MPs, known as Reclaim Canada’s NDP, are urging supporters to redirect donations from the central party to local riding associations. This call to action comes as a result of the NDP’s disappointing performance in the 2025 federal election, which left hundreds of ridings unable to receive rebates on campaign expenses.
In a press release issued on Saturday, Reclaim Canada’s NDP stated that the recent election results demonstrated that the NDP is perceived as an unviable political option by Canadians. The group believes that by reallocating funds directly to riding associations, progressive community organizers can access the resources needed to rebuild the party without bureaucratic constraints from the party’s management.
According to Elections Canada, candidates are eligible for reimbursement of campaign expenses if they were elected or received at least 10% of the valid votes. Unfortunately, less than 50 ridings out of 343 met this threshold for reimbursement, putting the party at risk in future elections.
Ji Won Jung, a spokesperson for Reclaim Canada’s NDP, expressed concern that not only was this election a setback for the party, but it will also make it harder for millions of Canadians to be represented in future elections. The group emphasized that the NDP’s small caucus size poses additional challenges in the House of Commons, as it is not recognized as an official party and has lost funding for the leader’s office and research bureau.
The group also highlighted issues with the party’s upper management, citing controversies surrounding the appointment of interim leader Don Davies. In response to these challenges, Reclaim Canada’s NDP is advocating for a shift in focus towards supporting local riding associations rather than the central party.
Their goal is to persuade between 5-10% of the NDP’s federal donor base to redirect donations to local riding associations. A template email is provided for donors to communicate their decision to the NDP, expressing a commitment to support the party at a local level until trust is regained.
Former NDP MP Rachel Blaney emphasized the importance of unity within the party and called for a conversation about how to move forward after a significant defeat. She stressed the need for grassroots engagement and collaboration among New Democrats to rebuild and strengthen the party.
Reclaim Canada’s NDP hopes that their message will spark a dialogue among party members and supporters to work together towards a fairer future for all Canadians. The group is united in their commitment to rebuilding the NDP and ensuring that the party regains the trust of its grassroots and the working class.
