Written By David Gomez, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
MIDDLESEX–LONDON - Taylor McIntosh, a frontline child and youth worker, union leader, and mother, is running as the New Democratic Party (NDP) candidate for Middlesex–London in the upcoming federal election. With deep roots in Southwestern Ontario and years of experience advocating for vulnerable communities, McIntosh says she wants to bring the realities of everyday Canadians to Parliament.
Reporter: Can you tell us more about your connection to the riding?
McIntosh: I have lived in Glencoe for seven years, and before that, in Dutton. I work supporting families as a child and youth worker. I have spent my career helping people who are often left behind by federal policies—those dealing with mental health, disability, poverty. I see the gaps in rural infrastructure, like the lack of doctors or reliable internet, and those struggles pushed me to run.
R: If elected, what would your top three priorities be for Middlesex–London?
McIntosh: Affordability, rural infrastructure, and healthcare. While healthcare is provincially managed, it is absolutely a federal issue. Federal underfunding set provinces up to fail. We need all levels of government working together—not patching things with piecemeal efforts. I want to see increased transfers, investment in healthcare workers, and expanded access to services like dental care, mental health support, and pharmacare.
R: There is a perception that the NDP is too similar to the Liberals. What sets the party apart?
McIntosh: This election shows that politics as usual is not working. With rising extremism and post-pandemic hardship, people are tired of governments that prioritize profits over people. We do not want to become a two-party country. Electing NDP MPs holds the Liberals and Conservatives accountable. Our wins, like dental and pharmacare, have made real differences for Canadians. We are here for real people and real change.
R: What is one area where you think the NDP needs to improve?
McIntosh: We need to rebuild community connection. I describe myself as a “radical empathetic” because I believe empathy belongs in politics. Every job—fast food, unskilled labour—contributes to society. People in these roles deserve to own homes, raise families, and live with dignity. That vision is what the NDP should continue to promote and protect.
R: You have spoken about healthcare. What is your plan to address access and staffing?
McIntosh: First, expand and defend existing programs. We need to protect pharmacare and dental coverage, especially for families and small business owners. We must also stop contracting out healthcare jobs and ensure workers are paid fairly and respected. We cannot rely on a profit-driven system. Private healthcare does not serve people—it serves margins.
R: What are your thoughts on immigration?
McIntosh: Immigration enriches our communities and literally keeps the economy running. I have met newcomers working double shifts in hospitals or growing the food we eat. Canada has been shaped by those seeking a better life. We need to fix backlogs, streamline credential recognition, and ensure newcomers are treated with fairness and dignity—not as disposable labour.
R: How would you respond to current U.S. tariffs and economic pressure?
McIntosh: We need MPs in Parliament who have our backs—not just the backs of the rich and their donors. The NDP supports tools like dollar-for-dollar tariffs, incentives for Canadian-made vehicles, and a jobs war room that brings together unions, provinces, and industry. We must defend our industries and workers through coordination and long-term planning.
R: What is your message to undecided voters?
McIntosh: This new riding needs new representation. I have lived the struggles of average Canadians, and I want to make policies—not just survive them. We need fresh voices in Parliament that reflect real people. I will bring that to Ottawa.
