NDP revival focuses on public grocery plan and Quebec challenge

The opinion argues the NDP must regain official party status by winning at least 12 seats to access funding and parliamentary resources, and that the leadership race faces hurdles in winning back Quebec and appealing to diverse voter groups.

The article says the NDP's short- and medium-term priority should be regaining official party status. It explains that reaching at least 12 seats would unlock funding, research money, technology support and parliamentary privileges. The leadership contest is framed around who can win those additional seats. The piece also raises concerns about the party's standing in Quebec and the limited French fluency of some candidates. Key facts: - The NDP needs at least 12 seats in the House of Commons to regain official party status, which would unlock funding and parliamentary resources. - Official status is described as providing funds for a leader's office, research, technology, printing and travel, along with committee spots and daily time in Question Period. - Leadership candidates discussed in the piece include Avi Lewis, Tanille Johnston, Heather McPherson and Rob Ashton, with commentary on their debate performances and appeal to different voter groups. - The article highlights concern about the party's presence in Quebec, noting the possibility of losing MP Alexandre Boulerice to Québec Solidaire and the challenge of limited French-speaking candidates. Summary: Regaining official party status is presented as the NDP's immediate strategic objective because of the funding and parliamentary access it would restore. The leadership race is framed as the mechanism to secure the extra seats needed, while the party's prospects in Quebec and the need for bilingual appeal remain undetermined at this time.