The political landscape in the Northwest Territories is shifting as candidates for the upcoming federal election in 2025 have been announced. Three political parties will compete in a territory where Indigenous people make up nearly half of the population, representing a unique political dynamic.
The Northwest Territories, home to 45,000 residents and over 30,500 registered voters, will see Michael V. McLeod, the incumbent Member of Parliament since 2015, not seeking re-election. McLeod announced his decision in July 2024, citing a desire to focus on his family and grandchildren.
Leading the Liberal Party is Rebecca Alty, who has served as the mayor of Yellowknife since 2018 and was a city councillor for six years before that. Alty brings experience in municipal governance, highlighted by her leadership during wildfire management and advocacy for housing solutions. "I want to represent the interests of the residents of the Northwest Territories, focusing on affordable housing, Indigenous voices, climate change, and creating diverse job opportunities," Alty expressed.
On the other hand, the Conservative Party has nominated Kimberly Fairman, who was selected as the candidate in July 2024 after narrowly defeating former MP Jackie Jacobson by six votes. Fairman, once the executive director of the Circumpolar Health Research Institute, aims to advocate for the territory’s sovereignty and economic power. In her campaign, Fairman commented, “We need to fight against federal gun control laws, build more housing, and implement a mixed insurance system to reduce taxes and improve justice.”
Kelvin Kotchilea, who finished second in the last federal election, is representing the New Democratic Party (NDP). Hailing from Behchokǫ̀, he holds dual degrees in administration and environmental resource management. Kotchilea has a history of government work, with 14 years at the Department of Education, Culture, and Employment, focusing on renewable resources and finance. His priorities encompass affordable housing, mental health, and developing Indigenous autonomy through improved local education and health care services.
The Green Party candidate, Angela Davidson, also known as Rainbow Eyes, is well known in eco-activist circles. She serves as the deputy leader of the Green Party and is a member of the Nation Da'naxda'xw Awaetlala. Davidson made headlines in 2024 when she received a 60-day detention and 75 hours of community service for contempt of court after protesting against old-growth logging in British Columbia. "I have a deep commitment to environmental issues and social justice, and I aim to bring these priorities to the federal stage," Davidson stated after her nomination.
As campaigning intensifies, both local and national issues will shape the electoral strategies of these candidates. The Northwest Territories is characterized by its unique socio-economic context, which includes a population where nearly half identify as Indigenous. Candidates will need to navigate a complex tapestry of interests and concerns, including housing shortages, health challenges, and climate change.
Meanwhile, significant changes to the federal electoral map will also play a role in the electoral dynamics. With the recent provincial redistricting, the name of the Quebec riding has changed to Québec-Centre, and modifications have occurred in several other ridings, ensuring voters are aligned with their respective constituencies.
As the political scene shifts, Prime Minister Mark Carney is set to meet with Governor General Mary Simon on March 23, 2025, to request the dissolution of Parliament, triggering a 37-day campaign leading up to the elections on April 28. Already, early signs like campaign signage popping up around Quebec are marking the beginning of what promises to be an energetic and competitive electoral cycle.
Jagmeet Singh, the NDP leader, has already criticized the dynamics, stating, "Carney is supported by Trump, Poilievre by Elon Musk, and I am the only one without ties to the American administration." His remarks highlight the framing candidates are using in this evolving election landscape.
Emmanuelle Latraverse, a political analyst, suggests that Pierre Poilievre faces a critical test in convincing the electorate he can safeguard Canadian interests amid the challenges posed by U.S. President Donald Trump. While Carney’s campaign promises have included tax cuts to draw voter support, the looming tariffs set to take effect on April 2, 2025, will challenge all candidates to articulate their positions on trade and economy.
Such developments feed into the broader narrative of the election, where key issues will intertwine with candidates’ personal and political histories. Fairman's commitment to housing, Alty's focus on Indigenous issues, Kotchilea's community-rooted efforts, and Davidson's passion for the environment set a competitive stage for the election.
With the campaign launching in the coming days, Canadians will be closely watching as these candidates set forth their visions for the future of the Northwest Territories and the country.
