Gary began teaching in rural Manitoba, where he met his wife, Jacqueline. In 1995, he moved back to Prince Edward Island to become a high-school teacher in Summerside.
Robichaud ran in the 2000 election, doing well for a New Democrat. In 2002 he ran for the leadership of the party, and won with 62 votes, over Ken Bingham with 18, and Debroah Kelly-Hawkes with 4.
Gary was diagnosed with cancer in late 2003, and has taken "sick leave" from the party. He remains as Leader.
Jane Dunphy and some other members of the Island New Democrats have become Spokespeople, to represent the party in the media.