Meet Don Davies, the new National Democratic Party interim leader replacing Jagmeet Singh

After a major setback in the Canada federal election 2025, the New Democratic Party (NDP) has named Don Davies, MP from Vancouver Kingsway since 2008, as its interim leader.

He is a long-serving MP and has been a prominent figure in the party and the country’s political arena. He also led efforts to advance crucial health legislation, such as dental care and pharmacare, during his time as the party’s health critic.

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As an NDP MP, he introduced significant private members' legislation, such as bills for universal pharmacare, school nutrition programs, and free tuition for students with diverse needs.

Born in Edmonton, Alberta, he earned a Bachelor of Arts in political science and a Bachelor of Laws from the University of Alberta before gaining admission to the Alberta Bar. His career in politics began as a researcher at the Legislative Assembly of Alberta and later as the executive assistant for policy and communications to Ray Martin, leader of the official opposition of Alberta.

This announcement of his appointment as the interim leader came almost a week after the NDP's former leader, Jagmeet Singh, stepped down after the party was reduced to only seven seats in the House of Commons, marking the worst electoral result in the party’s history, and ultimately losing their official party status. His resignation also followed his defeat in his own riding of Burnaby Central during the April 28 election.

In a statement, the party said the NDP’s Federal Council had made the decision.

“While the recent election results were not what we hoped for, our commitment to building a better Canada has never been stronger,” party president Mary Shortall said in a statement.

“With a renewed sense of purpose, we will hold the government to account and keep fighting for the issues we heard about on doorsteps across the country.”

The NDP also issued a statement recognizing Singh’s contributions, noting that he led with “courage, compassion, and a clear commitment to improving life for working people.”

Davies is actively involved in various community organizations, including Tools for Peace, Vancouver Co-op Radio, and the La Quena Cooperative. He also has a passion for hockey and plays the violin. A resident of the Kensington neighbourhood in Vancouver Kingsway, Davies is married to Sheryl Palm, a speech-language pathologist, and they have three children and a granddaughter.

Don’s leadership will now guide the NDP through a crucial period as the party works to regain its ground in the House of Commons.