Machinists endorse Singh for NDP Leader

Wednesday September 6, 2017

For Immediate Release

Toronto, ON – The IAM is endorsing Jagmeet Singh for leader of the federal New Democratic Party.

The decision came after lengthy and passionate debate among IAM Canadian office staff, national staff, District Lodge Directing Business Representatives, Business Representatives and General Chairpersons from across the country who are members of the NDP.

“We had a healthy discussion today from all of our staff and representatives and the message was clear, we are looking for someone to grow this party not just for the next election but beyond and Jagmeet Singh is our choice,” said IAM Canadian General Vice President Stan Pickthall.

Singh, an Ontario MPP has crisscrossed the country bringing in 47,000 new members into the party since he began his quest for the leadership.

“There is no doubt he is a populist candidate, he connects to the people, he’s a campaigner who can reach out and pull voters in and that’s what we need to combat the Liberals,” added Pickthall “He has been there with us on our issues and I will be speaking to him today to let him know he has our support.”

“This was a lengthy and engaged debate of the IAM Canadian leadership,” said Pickthall. “We agreed that all four candidates were strong NDP leaders. It is great to have so many good political activists to choose from. Ultimately the IAM is standing with Jagmeet Singh in the leadership process.”

The party membership votes on who will be the new leader starting on September 18^th.