THE WRAP-UP | Standing with Everyday People with NDP Leadership Candidate Rob Ashton
In this episode, we sit down with Rob Ashton for a wide-ranging conversation about class politics, worker power, and what it would mean to elect a leader who comes from working class.
The episode will stream live on YouTube at 7:00PM ET on Tuesday, December 9 and drop on podcast platforms at 6:00AM the following morning.
In this episode, we sit down with Rob Ashton — National President of ILWU Canada and candidate for federal NDP Leader — for a wide-ranging conversation about class politics, worker power, and what it would mean to elect a leader who comes from working class. Here’s a sneak preview:
We explore Ashton’s 30-year career as a longshoreman, how his background shapes his understanding of Canada’s working class, and why he believes the NDP must speak plainly, fight harder, and return to its roots.
He discusses his vision for tackling economic inequality, ensuring the wealthy pay their fair share, and building a country where everyone has security and dignity. We also dig into the central pillars of his platform, including the Good Jobs Promise and Worker Power Plan.
Finally, we talk about the state of the leadership race, what supporters can do to get involved, and — in a lighter moment — the eclectic soundtrack powering his cross-country tour.
Topics include:
NDP leadership race • Rob Ashton • working class politics • class war • economic inequality • tax fairness • labour movement • Good Jobs Promise • Worker Power Plan • union rights • housing affordability • corporate landlords • co-op and non-profit housing • rent control • economic sovereignty • affordability crisis • political elites • Canadian politics 2025 • progressive politics • federal NDP
The Progress Canada Podcast delves into the political, social, and policy transformations shaping the future of our country. Each episode brings thought-provoking discussions with policymakers, activists, and experts who are driving change across Canada. We explore what’s working, what’s not, and what needs to be done next to build a more inclusive, sustainable, and equitable future.