The Lake County Republicans hosted the final round of the Charlie Kirk Competition on Monday, November 24, 2025, at 7 p.m. in the Beaver Bay Community Center, drawing community members, local leaders, and prominent party officials for an evening celebrating young conservative voices.
Back in October, Lake County student in grades 9 through 12 were offered the opportunity to submit a one to two page essay on how Charlie’s message and life had inspired them.
The event opened with remarks from Congressman Pete Stauber, who addressed the crowd before the three finalists took the stage to read their essays.
A distinguished panel of judges evaluated the presentations, including:
- Donna Bergstrom, MNGOP Deputy Chair
- Roger Skraba, House Representative for District 3A
- Natalie Zeleznikar, House Representative for District 3B
- Darin Miller, Congressional District 8 Chair
- Nathan McIntyre, President of Turning Point USA at UMD
- Joe Volt, President of the Young Republicans at UMD
- Jacob Ringstad, Campaign Manager for Congressman Pete Stauber
While the judges deliberated, attendees heard from special guest Tad Jude, candidate for Minnesota Secretary of State for 2026.
After careful consideration, the judges announced the competition winners:
- 1st Place: Miles Aker, awarded $1,000
- 2nd Place: Micah Swanson, awarded $500
- 3rd Place: Joshua Klevgaard, awarded $100
All three finalists also received a custom “We Are Charlie Kirk” plaque designed by John Bonk, owner of John’s Tiny Workshop.
The winning essays are available for public reading on the Lake County Republicans website: www.lakecountyrepublicansmn.com.
The evening highlighted the talent and passion of young conservatives in Lake County and underscored the party’s commitment to fostering the next generation of leaders.
