Marit Stiles Wins NDP Leadership Review, Calls for Change

Marit Stiles, the leader of the Ontario New Democratic Party (NDP), successfully passed a leadership review during a party convention held in Niagara Falls, Ontario, on September 21, 2025. Stiles received approximately 68 percent of the votes cast, affirming her position as the party’s leader despite acknowledging that significant changes are necessary for future electoral success.

Reflection on Recent Elections

In her address at the convention, Stiles emphasized the need for the Ontario NDP to reassess its strategies following the recent provincial election, where Doug Ford and his Progressive Conservative party secured a third consecutive majority government. Stiles pointed out that the party cannot adopt the same campaign approach and expect different results. She stated, “We need to learn from our experiences and adapt to the changing political landscape.”

The leadership review comes in the wake of challenges faced by the Ontario Liberal Party, particularly after Bonnie Crombie resigned as its leader earlier this month due to a lack of support at the party’s annual general meeting. This context highlights the shifting dynamics within Ontario’s political landscape, where both opposition parties are seeking to regain traction.

Looking Ahead

Stiles’ call for change signals a commitment to evolving the NDP’s strategies to better resonate with voters. She indicated that the party would be taking a hard look at its past campaigns and addressing any shortcomings that contributed to its recent performance. “Our goal is to connect with the people of Ontario in a meaningful way,” she added.

The results of the leadership review not only reinforce Stiles’ position but also set the stage for a renewed focus on the party’s priorities. As the Ontario NDP prepares for future challenges, Stiles’ leadership will likely be pivotal in navigating the party’s path forward in a competitive political environment.

This report was initially published by The Canadian Press and reflects the ongoing developments within Ontario’s political parties as they adapt to the electorate’s needs.