A former White House correspondent, Richard Madan, who was previously with CTV and CBC, has been appointed by Wab Kinew’s NDP government to head Manitoba’s trade office in Washington, D.C. His annual salary of $387,000 was revealed by the premier’s office on Wednesday. This salary surpasses what Kinew earns as Manitoba premier ($195,936) and what Scott Gillingham earns as Winnipeg’s mayor ($223,338 as of 2024).
Hired in June, Madan’s role is to enhance Manitoba’s relationships with U.S. elected officials, trade representatives, and industry leaders while safeguarding the province’s interests in trade agreements. Kinew’s office mentioned that Madan swiftly adapted to his role due to his extensive network in the U.S. capital.
Since his appointment, Madan has engaged with Manitobans, assisted the agricultural sector in preparing for new U.S. country-of-origin labeling regulations, addressed trade challenges like a U.S. inquiry into Canadian mushrooms, and encouraged Manitobans to participate in discussions related to the renegotiation of the Canada-U.S.-Mexico trade agreement.
Furthermore, Madan has initiated plans for a Capitol Hill “advocacy day” to showcase Manitoba’s food and mineral supply chains and its contributions to Arctic defense to U.S. lawmakers, as per Kinew’s spokesperson, Ryan Stelter.
Opposition Leader Obby Khan has criticized Madan, labeling him as a “CBC buddy” of Kinew who operates a “work from home” office in Washington. Khan expressed astonishment at Madan’s salary, highlighting that it is eight times higher than an average Manitoba income. However, Kinew defended the appointment, emphasizing Madan’s qualifications and connections.
The premier’s office pointed out that Madan’s salary aligns with what other provinces pay their trade representatives and lobbyists. For instance, Ontario’s David Paterson, a former executive with major companies, is set to earn $364,000 this year, and Ontario is investing $600,000 in Washington lobbying firm Capitol Counsel, LLC.
Khan suggested that Manitoba should consider hiring an experienced trade representative or lobbying firm similar to Ontario’s approach. Despite attempts to reach Madan for comment, he was unavailable for response.
Madan, with a background in journalism spanning several years, including stints at CBC, CityTV, and CTV, has extensive experience in covering Washington. He mentioned his familiarity with key players in the region and his role as a facilitator to facilitate potentially beneficial meetings.
The revelation of Madan’s salary came after a prolonged inquiry by CBC News to obtain information on his compensation and the annual budget for the Washington office, including travel expenses, under Manitoba’s freedom of information laws. Despite the request made in July, the details were not released by October.