Secures Ballot Access in Bid for DNC Chair, Credits Watkinson for Shaping His Path

Watkinson Alumnus Jason Paul ’05, has taken a significant step toward his ultimate political ambition– becoming the Chair of the Democratic National Committee (DNC). Announcing his candidacy last month, Jason officially gained the necessary signatures from DNC members nationwide on January 7. His campaign reflects not only his professional growth but also values he cultivated during his time at Watkinson.

A Journey That Began at Watkinson

Jason’s journey into the political spotlight began long before his recent bid for DNC Chair. It’s no surprise to those who knew him at Watkinson that he is now making waves in national politics – after all, his senior project was about the congressional campaign he worked on between his junior and senior years of high school. Jason’s senior yearbook prophecy actually predicted that he would one day be the Chairman of the DNC!

“I’ve always been passionate about politics,” said Jason in a recent phone call. “But Watkinson set me on this trajectory.” Jason emphasized that Watkinson taught him to dream big and pursue those dreams. Sense of community, focus on collaboration, and the emphasis on diversity of thought all helped shape who Jason is today.

While Jason’s ambition grew throughout his time at school, it was Watkinson’s community-minded philosophy that made a lasting impact. “Watkinson taught me how to work with people who think differently,” a key to his success in the political world. Understanding different perspectives has been vital. Jason’s ability to listen, adapt, and work with a diverse range of people is a direct reflection of Watkinson’s own values.

A Strong Foundation for Political Strategy

After graduating from Watkinson, Jason studied at Brandeis University, where he became president of the College Democrats. He then earned his law degree from the University of Connecticut, further honing skills that would propel him through the ranks of political strategy and campaign management. Jason’s career has been marked by far reaching approaches as well as his passion for advancing democratic values. His innovative strategies have led to local and state level campaign victories all over New England.

Jason’s 2025 bid for DNC Chair, however, is his most ambitious campaign to date. “I’m proud of the support I’ve received from DNC members in 25 states, including eight state chairs.” Jason said. His platform includes an array of detailed reforms, from building state strategies to major fundraising overhauls. Notably, Paul’s platform includes engaging high school democrats. “It’s essential for high school students to focus on organizing within their own schools, ensuring they build lasting connections to their communities.” In Jason’s mind, long-term success begins with encouraging students’ existing interests, just like Watkinson did for him. 

A Vision for the Future, Rooted in Watkinson Values

“Watkinson was completely encouraging of me to change the world around me – and they were excited about it,” Jason reflected. That enthusiasm for innovation and leadership has stayed with him throughout his career. For Jason, Watkinson’s ethos of fostering curiosity, nurturing leadership, and embracing a spirit of inclusivity were key to helping him define and refine his values as a political strategist.

It is no surprise that Jason has gone on to become a formidable force in politics. His ability to listen, adapt, and work with a diverse range of people is a direct reflection of Watkinson’s inclusive, community-driven education. As Jason looks ahead to the upcoming DNC Chair race, his roots at Watkinson continue to provide a strong foundation for his future leadership.

A Campaign for Change

For Jason, his current campaign is not just about securing a title, it’s also about living up to the values he learned at Watkinson and working to create a future where more people have a voice in the political process.

We hope Jason’s success inspires the next generation of Watkinson leaders to continue to take the steps to achieve their dreams and shape their own futures.

Congratulations on the great work, Jason!

Jason Paul is also the author of Trench Warfare Politics in the Tinder Era.

For more information about Jason Paul’s campaign, visit paulfordnc.com.