Charlie Angus Brings the Punk Energy the NDP Needs in a Leader

The federal NDP's seat count is now so low that the party is begging for official party status, leaving the choice of its next leader crucial to its survival. With Jagmeet Singh out of the picture, Canada's social democratic party needs someone who can recapture the loyalty of blue-collar voters snatched by Pierre Poilievre's Conservatives in the recent election. It will take a leader who can excite the public, attract new members, and clearly differentiate the party from the ruling Liberals.

New Democrats should look no further than Charlie Angus, the rabble-rousing former MP for Timmins-James Bay. Since announcing his intent to bow out of party politics a year ago, the punk rocker turned politician has been gaining momentum, mirroring the rise of Senator Bernie Sanders and Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez in the US.

The Resistance: A Social Movement Against Facism

Angus has set out to do the same, launching a social movement called The Resistance to push back against what he sees as growing facism in the US and Canada. With a focus on progressive taxation, social services, and stricter climate policy, Angus is tapping into the zeitgeist of today's left-leaning voters who feel the NDP has let slip some of the issues they care about.

He would push the government hard for greater progressive taxation, social services, less corporate influence, and stricter climate policy. Angus is comfortable in front of a camera, a whiz with social media, and his populist style is similar to Sanders, who appeals to left Democrats and younger voters.

A Leader Without Ambition

Angus insists that 21 years in elected public office was enough and he has no future leadership aspirations. His focus will be growing The Resistance, a movement he believes can bring about change without the constraints of political constraints or caucus restrictions.

Why Charlie Angus?

New Democrats should take note of what transpired since they last chose a new leader and act accordingly. With his experience in politics, social media savvy, and ability to connect with young voters, Charlie Angus is perfectly positioned to be the "conscience" of the NDP.

A Canadian Treasure

Under a proportional system, I would vote for Charlie every time, hands down. But the ice cold arithmetic of FPTP makes splitting the vote a stark reality in competitive ridings like mine. Sad. However, with both good men in place and room for more diversity, I'm suddenly feeling an optimism missing since the 60s.

A Great Leader for Our Times

With Charlie Angus at the helm, the NDP might just find itself back on track. A leader who is unapologetically himself, with a spirit that's infectious and a love of history, a connect to the future, he is a great leader for our times.