Blake Paulson, a 2018 Becker High School graduate, was recently hired as the Minnesota State Director for the Donald J. Trump presidential campaign.

After high school, Paulson earned a degree in Political Science from the University of MN and has since established himself as a force in Republican politics across Central Minnesota.

His experience includes working as the legislative aide for State Rep. Shane Mekeland, and later he was hired as a District Representative for Congressman Tom Emmer.

Emmer recently praised the Trump campaign’s hiring of Paulson in an interview with KNSI radio.

“Yeah, he’s worked for us, but I’m going to tell you, he’s earned this,” Emmer said. “And by the way, the Trump people do their own due diligence. They’re the ones who decide, this person fits, or this person doesn’t.”

When contacted for his thoughts on his new employment, Paulson deferred comment, citing internal rules surrounding his position.

However, Mekeland spoke glowingly of Paulson’s intellect, passion and work ethic.  The two first met back in 2018 when Mekeland was door knocking in his first campaign. 

“I could not be more proud of this young man, he is so efficient, organized and smart,” Mekeland said, as he likened Paulson’s ascension to making it to the “Super Bowl” of politics.  “Don’t tell me that people can’t succeed in this nation . . . whether it’s the trades or something like politics, if you are willing to work hard you can make it.”

With just over 100 days until the election, Paulson is surely extremely busy leading the Trump campaign apparatus.  Mekeland, for one, is confident that Paulson will do a phenomenal job.

“Blake is not even 25 years old yet, but he’s already made it to this level,” Mekeland said.  “He’s going to do a great job and he has a very bright future ahead of him.”