NDP Leaders Beck and Nenshi Criticize Avi Lewis's Energy Policies as Unrealistic
Avi Lewis secured a decisive victory over four other candidates to become the federal NDP leader, capturing approximately 56 percent of the 71,000 votes cast during the weekend convention. His win, however, was immediately met with public opposition from provincial NDP leaders in Saskatchewan and Alberta, who moved swiftly to distance themselves from his controversial energy stance.
Immediate Backlash from Provincial Leaders
Saskatchewan NDP Leader Carla Beck and Alberta NDP Leader Naheed Nenshi both voiced strong criticism of Lewis's position on oil and gas development. Beck, in a letter rejecting Lewis's request for a meeting, described his policies as "ideological and unrealistic," warning they would harm workers, communities, and industries in Saskatchewan. She emphasized that Lewis "unequivocally" opposes any new oil and gas projects, a stance she argues ignores the economic realities of the province.
Beck highlighted that Saskatchewan relies heavily on natural resource development, with 40,000 jobs directly and indirectly tied to the sector, contributing $13.6 billion in annual economic activity. She stated, "The NDP is the party of working people. It's impossible to support—and respect—working people without respecting the jobs they have, not the ones you think they should have." Beck added she would only meet with Lewis if he publicly reverses his position and shows understanding of Saskatchewan's economic landscape.
Lewis's Campaign and Controversial Views
During his six-month campaign, Lewis raised a record $1.4 million in donations despite never holding elected office. He ran on a far-left platform that includes:
- Publicly-run grocery stores and telecommunications companies
- Opposition to new fossil fuel development
- Phasing out fossil fuels and transitioning workers into green jobs
His views have sparked division within the NDP, particularly in Western Canada where resource industries are vital. Nenshi echoed Beck's concerns, stating Lewis's approach is out of touch with workers in Alberta, where the oil and gas sector supports thousands of jobs nationwide.
Additional Controversies and Reactions
Lewis further alienated some NDP supporters after a resurfaced video from September 2020 showed him and his wife, Naomi Klein, laughing over former Lethbridge MLA Shannon Phillips losing her cabinet post. The video, part of a "mean tweets" reaction segment, also addressed criticism of their Leap Manifesto, which advocates for shutting down fossil fuel use and implementing extensive income redistribution.
This incident has added to the tension between Lewis and provincial NDP factions, highlighting the challenges he faces in uniting the party. As Lewis steps into his new role, the public rift with Beck and Nenshi underscores the ongoing debate within the NDP over balancing environmental goals with economic interests in resource-dependent regions.
