Avi Lewis called Alberta's energy deal the 'sellout of the century' during the first NDP leadership debate. Leading the debate coverage with his photo and opening stance, Lewis argued against the false dichotomy between electability and bold ideas, while addressing concerns about candidates' French language proficiency and advocating for strong anti-pipeline positions.

In the first official NDP leadership debate, Avi Lewis drew sharp contrasts with rivals Heather McPherson and Rob Singh on pipeline expansion. Lewis took a firm anti-pipeline stance, featuring prominently in debate coverage as he challenged both candidates on fossil fuel policy and climate action.

NDP leadership candidate Avi Lewis is connecting with Quebec voters by challenging both the Legault and Carney governments on pipeline projects. Drawing on his family's Montreal roots—including grandfather David Lewis who led the NDP—Lewis argues Quebec represents a progressivism not found elsewhere in Canada that the party should embrace.