Thunder Bay ridings remain Liberal strongholds as NDP faces national decline in 2025 election

Thunder Bay’s Liberal Stronghold Remains Intact

THUNDER BAY – POLITICS – In the 2025 federal election, Thunder Bay’s two ridings reaffirmed their support for the Liberal Party.

Marcus Powlowski secured a third term in Thunder Bay–Rainy River with nearly 48% of the vote, narrowly defeating Conservative Brendan Hyatt, who garnered approximately 44%. ​

In Thunder Bay–Superior North, Patty Hajdu achieved a fourth consecutive term, overcoming challenges from Conservative Bob Herman and NDP’s Joy Wakefield. Hajdu expressed gratitude for the continued trust placed in her by constituents. ​

National Shift: Liberals Lead, NDP Declines

Nationally, the Liberal Party, under Mark Carney’s leadership, is set to form a minority government, securing 168 seats. The Conservatives, led by Pierre Poilievre, won 144 seats. However the Conservative lost his riding to the Liberals.  The NDP faced a significant setback, capturing only 7 seats, a decline from their previous 25 seats.

The losses take the New Democrats into also losing official party status in the House of Commons. This means they also lose funding for research and staff.

Jagmeet Singh, leader of the NDP, who lost his seat in Burnaby Central announced his resignation as party leader, marking a challenging period for the party. ​

Elizabeth May retained her Saanich-Gulf Islands seat, winning with 38.8% of the vote.

Voter turnout across the country was at 67%.

Implications for Northwestern Ontario

The continued Liberal representation in Thunder Bay suggests a preference for experienced leadership amid national uncertainties. With the NDP’s diminished presence, local advocacy may rely more heavily on Liberal MPs to address regional concerns.