Jake Wagman founded Shield Political Research after covering state and local government as a newspaper reporter for eleven years, first in the Philadelphia area and then in St. Louis.

Some of Jake's many investigative projects included uncovering dead voters who had "signed" a recall petition; shining a light on lawmakers who accepted free tickets to premium sports events; exposing an alderman seeking tax exempt status on his campaign headquarters; and discovering that a state legislator had used campaign funds to go on a shopping spree at the mall.

He was twice recognized by the Missouri Press Association for best coverage of government.

Jake graduated with a degree in journalism from the University of Missouri, where he was editor of the student paper.

He has experience covering political campaigns at every level, from the school board and U.S. Senate to City Hall and the White House.

Jake grew up in South Florida, starting his journalism career early at the Miami Herald.

When not seeking to hold public officials accountable, Jake enjoys cheering on his beloved St. Louis Cardinals and spending time with his wife and their two beautiful daughters.

The family now resides in South Bend, Ind.