NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh is unapologetic about his decision not to push for a fall election, fearing the prospect of Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre seizing a majority. Singh emphasized the importance of allowing more time for key healthcare initiatives like pharmacare to take root.

Last fall, polling indicated that the Conservatives were poised to significantly diminish the governing Liberals' presence, potentially establishing a majority government, while the NDP was struggling for second place. Fast forward to now, and the Liberals are leading in polls, yet Singh remains confident in his choice to maintain the status quo and not bring down the government.

"I wanted people to benefit from dental care and pharmacare — these are crucial issues I'm fighting for," Singh declared passionately during a speech at the Ontario Public Service Employees Union convention in Toronto.

Singh voiced concerns about the dangerous agenda proposed by Poilievre, which he believes would lead to essential cuts that would undermine public welfare. He rebuked the idea of allowing Poilievre to ascend to a majority government, stating, "I simply couldn’t stomach it."

Addressing union members, Singh warned that without more New Democrats in Parliament, Canada risks a return to severe budget cuts similar to those of the 1990s.

As Parliament prepares to reconvene in a month, Singh outlined urgent priorities for the federal budget. Key issues include expanding pharmacare to cover vital medications, national rent control, implementing price caps on essential groceries, and tightening regulations on offshore tax havens.

"If the Liberals want our support, they need to commit to strengthening healthcare and making life more affordable for Canadians," Singh asserted.

He raised alarms about the Liberals' plan to slash up to $28 billion in operational spending, which could jeopardize provincial health funding. Singh highlighted inconsistencies in what Liberal leader Carney has said regarding healthcare spending.

In the previous Parliament, the NDP successfully leveraged its support to advance significant initiatives like dental care and pharmacare, countering threats from the growing possibility of a Liberal majority that could diminish the influence of opposition parties.

In a bold move, Singh criticized the Bloc Québécois as ineffectual, claiming they have done little to benefit the people during the minority government period.

Despite uncertainties about the future of the party or his own leadership, Singh encourages positive engagement in the final days of the campaign. He noted, "The NDP always evaluates itself post-campaign, especially given external challenges that are out of our control, such as geopolitical tensions and trade disputes."

The NDP campaign continues with stops in Hamilton and London, Ontario, as Singh aims to maintain and gain seats. He plans to head back to his home riding in Burnaby, British Columbia, to conclude the campaign.