5 People Who Could Replace Elizabeth May as Green Party Leader

With growing criticism of Elizabeth May’s leadership and speculation about the party’s future, one question looms large: if she steps down, who could replace her? While May has held a firm grip on the party for years, there are several credible figures within the Green movement who could bring fresh leadership. Here’s a look at the most likely contenders.

Mike Morrice: The Sitting MP with Credibility on Palestine

As one of the Green Party’s two Members of Parliament, Mike Morrice is a natural frontrunner. Representing Kitchener Centre, Morrice has established himself as a strong advocate for social and environmental justice. He has gained credibility on foreign policy, particularly regarding Palestine, where he has taken principled stances that align with many Green supporters. Additionally, Morrice has taken French language courses—an important factor in leading a national party. If the Greens want a leader with parliamentary experience and a moderate, pragmatic approach, Morrice could be the party’s best bet.

Dimitri Lascaris: The Anti-War Firebrand the Establishment Fears

Dimitri Lascaris, a lawyer, journalist, and former Green Party justice critic, was the runner-up in the 2020 leadership race, earning strong grassroots support. He is one of Canada’s most vocal critics of Western militarism and NATO’s role in the Ukraine war, making him a major contrast to May and Pedneault’s pro-NATO foreign policy. However, Lascaris’ path to leadership would face fierce resistance from the party’s establishment. May actively opposed his 2020 leadership bid, pushing a false narrative about antisemitism to try to disqualify him. If he were to run again, the battle lines would be drawn between the party’s grassroots members and its leadership insiders.

Alex Tyrrell: The Senior Green Leader Who’s Been Pushed Out

As one of Canada’s longest-serving Green Party leaders, Alex Tyrrell has led the Green Party of Quebec since 2013, making him a serious contender. A vocal anti-war advocate and strong supporter of Palestinian rights, he has stood against NATO’s proxy war in Ukraine and was controversially expelled from the federal Green Party after May’s team blocked his leadership bid in 2022. Tyrrell also holds a degree in environmental science and, at 36 years old, represents a younger, more progressive voice in Canadian politics. If the federal party wants to rebuild its credibility with activists and young voters, a Tyrrell leadership could be a bold move.

Peter Bevan-Baker: The PEI Success Story

If the Greens want a leader with a track record of electoral success, Peter Bevan-Baker would be a logical choice. As the leader of the Green Party of Prince Edward Island, he took the party to official opposition status—the strongest electoral performance by any Green Party in Canada. His measured, pragmatic leadership style contrasts with May’s more polarizing approach, making him a candidate who could unite different factions of the party. However, it remains unclear if he would be interested in leaving provincial politics for the federal scene.

Naomi Hunter: The Grassroots Fighter with Staying Power

As the leader of the Saskatchewan Green Party, Naomi Hunter is known for her tireless grassroots organizing and unwavering commitment to Green values. She has been one of the most persistent provincial Green leaders, helping the party stay active despite Saskatchewan’s challenging political climate. Hunter also has strong credibility on Palestine and has been outspoken on Indigenous and environmental issues. While she lacks the national profile of some other candidates, her deep roots in activism and community organizing could make her a formidable contender in a leadership race.

Who Will Take the Torch?

With Elizabeth May’s leadership facing mounting challenges, the Green Party of Canada is at a crossroads. Whether the party opts for an experienced MP like Morrice, an anti-war crusader like Lascaris or Tyrrell, or a grassroots fighter like Hunter, the decision could determine whether the Greens remain a fringe movement under May’s control or a growing force in Canadian politics.

For now, May remains in charge—but if she steps aside, the battle for the party’s future will be wide open.