News director and politics editor Mike Trautmann

Job: News director/politics editor

Years at the Register: 6

I grew up in: Hecla, South Dakota

I live in: Urbandale

I graduated from: South Dakota State University

Family: Married; four dogs (two corgis, a Great Pyrenees and a border collie mix)

Email: mtrautmann@gannett.com

Why journalism? My parents and teachers always told me I loved to challenge authority. Journalism gave me the avenue to do that. I still hold by the maxim: “Comfort the afflicted and afflict the comfortable.”

My major responsibilities are: I oversee the Register’s health, education and politics coverage, including the Legislature and elections, as well as the Iowa Caucuses. I also work with the USA TODAY Network’s national politics coverage and help manage overall Register news operations.

I like my job because: The Register has always swung above its weight class with its political coverage. People across the nation look to our newsroom to get a jumpstart on the presidential elections.

Some of the major stories I’ve been involved in helping cover recently: Iowa’s book ban, Iowa Caucuses and swing-state presidential election coverage with the USA TODAY Network.

Some stories my team is working on next: Priorities in the Iowa Legislature, mental health of Iowans, and immigration policy impact.

When I’m not working, I like to: Read, run (usually after my dogs) and rummage through flea markets

My favorite Iowa haunt: Gray’s Lake and the Great Western Trail. There’s no better way to put in some miles and get away from it all.

Fun fact about me: I once put down a bet in the Kentucky Derby on the wrong horse, mistakenly picking a 50-1 long shot. Shockingly, he won, reaping me an $800 windfall. Every year after, my Louisville Courier Journal colleagues would ask me who I would accidentally pick this time. (I’m also a strong defender of year-round candy corn.)

This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Meet Des Moines Register news director, politics editor Mike Trautmann