January 7, 2020
Rural broadband and telecom veteran will support federal legislative agenda
WASHINGTON, DC—USTelecom | The Broadband Association today announced the appointment of Paul Raak as Vice President, Government Affairs. Raak joins the national broadband and technology group from ITTA where he oversaw the association’s advocacy and policy priorities on Capitol Hill.
Raak has more than 15 years of experience advising elected officials and companies on innovation and telecom policy. Prior to joining ITTA in 2007, Raak was a technology and tax policy staffer to Rep. Lee Terry (R-NE). At USTelecom, he will work closely with members on a range of connectivity issues, including broadband mapping, deployment and the Rural Digital Opportunity Fund.
“Paul’s passion for rural broadband started in Iowa as the son of a third-generation telephone company owner, so he’ll not only be a great addition to our team but an asset to our rural broadband providers in every corner of the country,” said Jonathan Spalter, president and CEO of USTelecom.
Earlier in his career, Raak worked for a rural Iowa company that provided landline and wireless voice, broadband and video services. He earned his degree in political science and public administration from the University of Northern Iowa.