Trump and YouTube Star Jake Paul Interact at Kentucky Rally

The viral moment has garnered tens of millions of views across social media platforms.

Mar. 12, 2026 at 1:52pm

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During a stop in Hebron, Kentucky, President Donald Trump invited YouTube personality Jake Paul on stage, leading to a viral interaction that has been viewed millions of times online. The two discussed Paul's recent boxing match, Trump's plans to bring manufacturing jobs back to the U.S., and the president's belief that Paul may run for political office in the future.

Why it matters

The viral moment between Trump and the popular YouTuber highlights the former president's continued influence and ability to generate significant social media engagement, even after leaving office. It also demonstrates Trump's willingness to align himself with younger, non-traditional political figures as he considers a potential 2024 run.

The details

Toward the end of his remarks at the Verst Logistics facility, Trump praised Paul's recent boxing match against former heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua, calling the YouTuber a 'very tough cookie' and 'courageous.' Trump then invited Paul on stage, where the two discussed topics ranging from Paul's fighting spirit to Trump's plans to revive American manufacturing. Paul expressed his belief that Trump would continue to 'bring manufacturing home' and that 'God is with us' in supporting the former president.

  • The interaction occurred on Wednesday, March 12, 2026 during Trump's visit to Hebron, Kentucky.
  • Paul had recently competed in a boxing match against Anthony Joshua in December.

The players

Donald Trump

The 45th President of the United States, who is considering a potential 2024 presidential run.

Jake Paul

A popular YouTuber and professional boxer who has gained significant attention for his high-profile fights against former professional athletes.

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What they’re saying

“This guy has guts, and had he walked out with a broken jaw. This was not the greatest fight, but you know what it showed? Lots of courage. Come here, Jake, say a few words.”

— Donald Trump, President of the United States

“What Mr. Trump has taught me is courage. You know, we never back down from a fight, even if they're much bigger than you, much, much bigger than you. And I feel all the local Kentuckians feel the same way. You guys have that fight. You guys have that swag.”

— Jake Paul, YouTuber and Boxer

“We need more factories like this thriving all over the country, and I know he's going to be the one to bring that here to us. I know God is with us. I know he wants us on the right side of history, and everyone here has to do their part, and God's got us, Trump's got us. God bless. Love you, Kentucky.”

— Jake Paul, YouTuber and Boxer

What’s next

Trump indicated he believes Jake Paul may run for political office 'in the not too distant future' and said he has the former president's 'complete and total endorsement' should he choose to do so.

The takeaway

The viral interaction between Trump and Jake Paul demonstrates the former president's continued ability to generate significant social media engagement, even after leaving office. It also highlights Trump's willingness to align himself with younger, non-traditional political figures as he considers a potential 2024 presidential run.