NDP leadership: Johns says McPherson can restore official party status

B.C. MP Gord Johns endorsed Alberta MP Heather McPherson for NDP leader, saying her ability to hold her Edmonton seat could help rebuild the party; the party will name its next leader on March 29.

Gord Johns, the B.C. NDP MP, has endorsed Alberta MP Heather McPherson for leader of the federal NDP. Johns told The Canadian Press he supports McPherson because he believes her ability to win her Edmonton riding again shows she can help grow the party. The NDP lost official party status after holding only seven seats in the last election. Johns said those who retained seats showed they could win under difficult circumstances. Key facts: - Johns publicly endorsed McPherson and cited her re-election strength in Edmonton as a reason for his support. - The NDP held seven seats in the last federal election and lost official party status. - Johns is the second sitting NDP MP to endorse a leadership candidate; Manitoba MP Leah Gazan previously endorsed Avi Lewis. - Party fundraising data to Dec. 31 shows Avi Lewis with nearly $780,000 and McPherson with over $415,000. - All five leadership candidates are scheduled for an English debate in B.C. on Feb. 19, and the party plans to announce its new leader on March 29. Summary: Johns' endorsement adds to the developing pattern of internal support within the NDP and highlights McPherson's campaign emphasis on electoral strength. The leadership contest continues toward a Feb. 19 debate and a March 29 leadership announcement. Fundraising figures reported to Dec. 31 form part of the context around the race.