Secretary Michael Watson Update

Michael Watson - Secretary of State

Friday, March 20, 2020


Seal


Secretary of State Seal Legislation

When I served in the Senate, Gov. Phil Bryant asked me to introduce legislation placing the words “In God We Trust” on the Great Seal of our state. Now that I serve as your Secretary of State, one of my priorities is to add those same words to the seal of our agency. I am happy to push Senate Bill 2131, authored by Sen. Jeremy England, which will replace the word "official" with the words “In God We Trust” on the Secretary of State's seal (as shown in the image above). This phrase signals Mississippi’s allegiance to God as well as our country. What a timely reminder in these turbulent days. If you agree with this legislation, please contact your House and Senate members and let them know you support Senate Bill 2131. 


PromoteTheVote

Promote the Vote

I had the pleasure of honoring students, teachers and families during the 2019 Promote the Vote Awards Ceremony at the Mississippi Capitol. Promote the Vote is our office's comprehensive K-12 voter education program. This year's  "MY vote is MY voice" theme encouraged students to use their voice at the ballot box by voting in a mock election and participating in art and essay contests. I was thoroughly impressed by all of the entries, and I'm grateful for the students who allowed me to scan a copy of their award-winning work to hang in the office! 

WomenLeadershipDay

Women's Leadership Day

I was honored to serve as one of the speakers for the Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation Women's Leadership Day at the Capitol. The annual event unites women from across the state who are actively involved in the agriculture industry. I discussed how important their leadership is to our state, and shared ways our office could assist with future goals.


Monroe County

82-County Tour

(pictured: Monroe County)

We are now 18 stops into our 82-County Tour! The tour allows me to discuss voting-related issues with Circuit Clerks and Election Commissioners across the state. The strong relationships that emerge from each visit play a vital role in maintaining Mississippi's strong election system.

  Click here to track our 82-County Tour stops. 

Recent News


Electionpostponed

Runoff Election Postponed

After constant communication with the impacted Circuit Clerks, we recommended the Governor postpone the 2nd Congressional District Republican runoff between Brian Flowers and Thomas Carey. Gov. Reeves agreed, and signed an Executive Order postponing the runoff to June 23, 2020.

Click here to read the Executive Order. 


Coronavirus_small

Coronavirus Response

Our office is closed to the general public until further notice, but our team is still working hard to provide accurate and efficient service via phone, email, and various online resources. Should you need assistance during this unique and challenging time, please do not hesitate to contact our office.

Click here for contact information. 


Staff Spotlight

Matt Malouf

MATT MALOUF

Hometown: Jackson, MS

Matt Malouf joined the Secretary of State's Office in January 2020 as the Mailroom Coordinator. He is always willing to go the extra mile, and it is rare that you will find him without a smile on his face. When he's not at work, you can catch Matt biking, working out, or laying out by the pool. Thank you for your hard work and positivity, Matt!