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.
Recent Contributions
- Politics Friday: The voters have spoken, but sent a muddled message for Minnesota’s Legislature
- Minnesota Now: Nov. 6, 2024 — Special post-election show
- Politics Friday: Minnesota campaigns, parties gear up for Election Day
- Politics Friday: The race to lead the Minnesota Legislature
- Politics Friday: The 2024 election will determine who presides in Minnesota courtrooms, remember there are judges on your ballot
- Walz, Vance campaigns stop in Twin Cities briefly as election draws nearer
- Battle to shore up bases remains as Election Day nears
- Politics Friday: Minnesota’s 2nd Congressional District debate
- Politics Friday: Poll shows Harris with narrow Minnesota lead, but what else can we glean from it?
- Politics Friday: Know your ballot picks? It’s time to vote in Minnesota