Secretary Michael Watson Update

Michael Watson - Secretary of State

Friday, June 12, 2020


MWJointElections

Joint Meeting with House & Senate Elections Committee

Last week, I joined the Mississippi House and Senate joint Elections Committee meeting to discuss how our voting process can move forward under pandemic guidelines. A few of the topics included absentee voting, vote-by-mail, election security, and voter safety. Our office has secured personal protective equipment for poll workers and sanitizing materials for polling locations, but other proposals require help from the legislature. A successful election requires a team approach, and it's essential for state leaders and election officials to develop a plan that protects voters and the integrity of our elections. My goal is to always be as transparent as possible, and I hope that we look back on these conversations after the November election and realize we did what was best for Mississippi in the long run.


MMLcensus

MML Census Outreach Efforts

Our office is excited to partner with the Mississippi Municipal League to help boost census participation across the state. We recently discussed unique outreach ideas during a conference call with representatives from cities with the highest self-response rates. At the moment, Mississippi has a 50.6% self-response rate. Our goal is to brainstorms ways to surpass the 61.3% self-response rate from 2010 and reach a complete and accurate count in 2020. 


Taiwan

Taiwan Covid Prevention Webinar

‪I was honored to share how our office and the state of Mississippi is handling the ongoing pandemic during a virtual seminar regarding Taiwan’s COVID-19 Prevention Experience. The online event offered a range of different perspectives and ideas aimed to protect our communities and our economy.  


Rotary

Rotary Club Updates

‪Most in-person meetings are still on hold, but I've enjoyed my virtual discussions with Rotary Clubs across the area regarding upcoming elections, the COVID-19 impact on the business community, and the 2020 Census. Thank you again to the Rotary Clubs of Flowood, Gulfport and Columbus for inviting me to be your guest speaker!


PrayerRally

Prayer Rally at the Capitol

I'm still reflecting on the powerful words from the prayer gathering in front of the Capitol last week. With so much going on around the world and in our state, I truly believe Mississippi can be the light in dark times. Together, we can spark change and it starts with prayer. Thank you to Mission Mississippi for organizing this uplifting moment of unity and hope.

Recent News


TheDispatch


Secretary of State: Mississippi not yet ready for vote by mail system

"Mississippi Secretary of State Michael Watson said Tuesday his opposition to a statewide mail-based voting system is because he's not sure it's the safest option for Mississippi -- or if it's even a legitimate possibility anytime soon."

Click here to read more. 

WJTV12


(VIDEO) Taking care of business: Voting, 2020 Census and COVID-19

"Mississippi Secretary of State Michael Watson talked to 12 News about voting, the 2020 Census and the impact COVID-19 could have on voting."

Click here to watch the interview. 


Staff Spotlight

NitikaHillMack

Nitika Hill-Mack

Hometown: Edwards, MS

Nitika joined the Secretary of State's Office in 1999 and currently serves our office as the director of Business Services. Her wealth of knowledge and experience played a vital role in making sure our business community remained well-informed throughout the pandemic. In her spare time, Nitika loves to craft, teach Sunday School & Bible Study Classes, and fish. Incredibly thankful to have you on the team, Nitika!