Former network journalist Richard Madan is Manitoba’s new U.S. trade representative based in Washington, D.C. (CBC NEWS / YOUTUBE)
The Manitoba government has opened a permanent trade office in Washington, D.C., appointing longtime political journalist and former White House correspondent Richard Madan as its lead representative.
Premier Wab Kinew announced the move Tuesday, emphasizing Madan’s extensive media background and insider knowledge of U.S. politics as key assets in strengthening Manitoba’s economic and trade ties with the United States.
“Richard has the knowledge, skill set and connections in Washington to speak the language of the Trump administration and be a voice for Manitobans in the White House,” Kinew said in a statement.
Madan, known for his work at CTV and CBC, brings a journalist’s perspective and a Rolodex of high-level Washington contacts to the newly established post. His mandate includes protecting Manitoba’s interests in trade negotiations like the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) and building relationships with lawmakers and industry leaders in key states including Illinois, Minnesota, Georgia, Tennessee and Texas.
“Manitoba and the U.S. have been trading partners for a long time but the rules of engagement have changed under the Trump administration,” Madan said. “I understand the U.S. and I know how to talk to these folks — Republicans and Democrats.”
Madan’s last official day with CBC News was just last week before he signed off after more than 20 years in journalism.
Madan is in Manitoba this week to consult with business leaders, Indigenous representatives, unions, and provincial cabinet ministers ahead of starting the new role. The province has allocated $800,000 in its 2025 budget to fund the office.
