Meet Brian Bakst

Brian Bakst is the MPR News politics editor.

Brian graduated from the University of Minnesota in 1998 with degrees in Political Science and Journalism. Since 1999, he has been dedicated to covering Minnesota politics and government.  

Brian began his career as a legislative correspondent for a chain of Iron Range newspapers before moving to The Associated Press, where he spent 17 years based at the Capitol. He joined MPR News in 2016 as a Capitol correspondent. Throughout his career, Brian has covered six gubernatorial elections and numerous campaigns for the U.S. Senate, House and the state Legislature. He has also tracked several presidential campaigns both locally and nationally.  

Outside the newsroom, Brian is an avid golfer and enjoys spending time on Minnesota golf courses, often accompanied by his two daughters. He regularly appears on public affairs shows.