The Big Story What can Canada's Left learn from Mamdani's win?
Nov 10, 2025
Saman Tabasinejad, Executive Director of Progress Toronto, dives into the implications of Zohran Mamdani's victory for Canada’s left. They discuss how Mamdani's clear affordability message contrasts with the NDP's struggle for identity. Saman highlights the importance of grassroots campaigns and internal party dynamics, debating pragmatism versus progressivism. They also ponder the NDP's messaging challenges and propose that Mamdani’s success could inspire a rejuvenated political strategy for the Canadian left.
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Simplicity Drove Mobilization
- Mamdani won by tying a simple affordability message to three clear policies that voters could remember.
- That clarity powered massive volunteer door-knocking and a dominating digital narrative.
Few Bold Planks Beat Big Policy Books
- A small set of tangible promises made affordability feel solvable and persuasive.
- That focus forced opponents to react rather than set the agenda.
Adapt Organizations To Talent
- Embrace charismatic grassroots figures and change organizational practices to support them.
- Accept that winning may require altering old structures and communications.