Labour vote splitting as Canada’s political parties battle for workers’ support

Labour Day Message from NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh

OTTAWA — A year ago, then-NDP leader Jagmeet Singh’s Labour Day message to workers emphasized his party’s commitment to standing with working Canadians and the unions that protect their rights.

A Shift in Support

However, recent events have shown a shift in support for the NDP among union voters. During the last federal election, the party was shut out of Ontario, including in union-heavy ridings in cities like Hamilton and Windsor.

Changing Political Landscape

Senator Hassan Yussuff noted that political parties are now more attentive to the power of the four million unionized workers in Canada. Both the Liberals and Conservatives have adjusted their policies towards organized labour, leaving the NDP to reconnect with its roots.

Appealing to Working-Class Voters

Conservative strategist Amanda Galbraith pointed out that politicians like Ontario Premier Doug Ford and former Conservative leader Erin O’Toole have successfully appealed to working-class voters. The Conservatives have worked to shake off their image as the party of “big business” in order to broaden their voter base.

Shift to the Right

History professor Steven High highlighted a fundamental shift in the political landscape towards right-wing populism. Populist parties on the right are softening their anti-union rhetoric and courting the labour movement in ways they hadn’t before.

The NDP’s Wake-Up Call

Longtime NDP MP Charlie Angus called the election results a “wake-up call” for both the party and organized labour. He acknowledged that the connection between the two has been challenged and that the NDP needs to refocus on its mission of representing working-class people.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published on Sept. 1, 2025.

Written by Catherine Morrison, The Canadian Press