The New Democratic Party of Canada is entering a period of transition, and longtime B.C. MP Don Davies is stepping up to guide it forward.
With the party facing challenges after its recent electoral losses, Davies has been named interim leader, taking on the role as the NDP works to rebuild.
The decision was made by the party’s national council Monday evening after discussions within the NDP caucus about the leadership situation.
His appointment comes after former leader Jagmeet Singh resigned following his loss in the Burnaby Central seat during the recent federal election last Monday.
Davies, a veteran MP representing Vancouver Kingsway since 2008, has played a key role in advancing health policy, including negotiating dental care and pharmacare legislation with the Liberal government while serving as the NDP’s health critic.
His leadership will be important as the party tries to bounce back after dropping to just seven seats in the House of Commons and losing its official party status.
The NDP caucus held discussions last week regarding the leadership situation, which helped shape the national council’s decision to appoint Davies.
A party representative has confirmed that the rules and timeline for selecting a permanent leader will be determined at a later date.
Throughout his parliamentary career, Davies has been a strong advocate for social programs, having introduced private members’ legislation on universal pharmacare, school nutrition initiatives, and free tuition for students with disabilities.
His background includes a degree in political science and law from the University of Alberta, and he has actively contributed to community and policy initiatives.
Moving forward, his focus as interim leader is expected to reinforce the party’s presence in Parliament and champion key issues such as public health care, housing affordability, and economic fairness.
