OTTAWA — Dominic LeBlanc, Canada’s Minister for Canada-U.S. Trade, is navigating a complex landscape as he seeks to secure a trade deal with the United States. This comes just five years after he successfully battled cancer.

LeBlanc has spent significant time in Washington, D.C., addressing the challenges posed by U.S. tariffs under President Donald Trump. His role as the lead cabinet minister in these negotiations is critical, especially given the unpredictable nature of the Trump administration's trade policies.

Initially, LeBlanc was not expected to take on such a pivotal role. He is known more for his political acumen and charm than for his expertise in trade policy. In 2019, he stepped back from his position in former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s cabinet while undergoing treatment for a rare form of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. Doctors gave him an 80 percent chance of survival, but there were no guarantees.

As 2023 began, LeBlanc’s health improved, but his government faced significant political challenges. Polls indicated a potential 25-point deficit for the Liberal Party, raising concerns about their ability to secure a fourth consecutive mandate. In April, LeBlanc overcame another hurdle when he was retained in his role, despite speculation that he might be replaced as the cabinet underwent changes under new leadership.

LeBlanc is now tasked with negotiating a crucial trade deal with the U.S., a country known for its fluctuating tariff policies. Jamie Tronnes, executive director of a Canadian think tank, noted that personal rapport is vital in negotiations, especially with the current U.S. administration. "I think the Trump team has a rapport with Dominic LeBlanc," Tronnes said, highlighting LeBlanc's ability to ease tensions during discussions.

This contrasts sharply with the previous administration's negotiations, where Trump openly criticized Trudeau and former Foreign Affairs Minister Chrystia Freeland. Tronnes remarked that a good rapport not only helps in sealing deals but also clarifies what the U.S. wants from Canada.

LeBlanc has a busy agenda ahead. Recently, he appeared before the Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Trade, where he was humorously acknowledged for the extensive list of his cabinet roles, which include Minister of Internal Trade and President of the King’s Privy Council for Canada.

Tony Clement, a former cabinet minister and longtime friend, described LeBlanc as "living the dream" in his current position. "He’s thriving — he’s a key component of that government," Clement said.

LeBlanc’s political journey has been marked by resilience. He is now seen as one of the most influential members of the Carney government, with Scott Reid, a former Liberal adviser, calling him an "indispensable" minister due to his skills and the importance of the Canada-U.S. relationship.

Reflecting on his journey, LeBlanc expressed gratitude for his current role. "If I think where I was myself five or six years ago just in terms of health, or where we were politically a year ago, I feel super lucky to have the job I have now," he said.

At 57, LeBlanc acknowledges that his battle with cancer has instilled in him a renewed sense of urgency. "It sort of makes you not want to miss one day or one week of something that you appreciate and enjoy," he stated.

Born into a political family in Ottawa, LeBlanc has deep roots in Canadian politics. His father, Romeo, served as a cabinet minister and later became Canada’s first governor general from the Maritimes. LeBlanc’s educational background includes degrees from the University of Toronto, the University of New Brunswick, and Harvard University.

His political career began in 1993, and he has held various roles, including cabinet positions in Public Safety, Fisheries and Oceans, and Northern Affairs. LeBlanc’s ability to connect with people and understand different perspectives has been a hallmark of his career, making him a valuable asset in his current role.

As he continues to work on securing a trade deal with the U.S., LeBlanc’s journey from cancer survivor to a key player in Canadian politics serves as an inspiring comeback story.