Secretary Michael Watson Update

Michael Watson - Secretary of State

Monday, March 8, 2021


NewBusinesses2020

Incredible Business Growth Despite Pandemic

The Mississippi business community experienced phenomenal growth during one of the most economically challenging years in our nation's history. In 2020, we witnessed a net of more than 30,000 new businesses formed in Mississippi, a tremendous increase from the net of roughly 3,000 new businesses formed in 2019.

Click here to view an industry breakdown.

While some of the business filings may be tied to federal relief efforts, I credit much of our growth to the entrepreneurial spirit beaming across our great state. The pandemic forced many Mississippians to explore new career paths in order to support their family during unprecedented times. 

Our easy-to-navigate online resources combined with guidance from our well-trained team members make it easier than ever to form a new business. We also provide numerous resources for long-standing business owners. For more information, visit the websites below. 

Mississippi Boss

Y'all Business


LeeCountyRepublicanWomen

Visit with Lee County Republican Women

I was eager to discuss Mississippi's business growth, along with other agency priorities, during Tuesday's Lee County Republican Women's meeting at the Tupelo Country Club. During the visit, I highlighted recent successes through our Tackle the Tape initiative, which aims to cut excessive regulations for small businesses. I also reiterated the importance of election security and voter roll maintenance. Thank you again for allowing me to come and speak! 


BolivarCountyCircuitClerk

82-County Tour

We are now 29 stops in to our 82-County Tour! I had the chance to hear in-depth 2020 Election Cycle experiences and discuss 2021 election legislation during recent visits with the Circuit Clerk and Election Commissioners in Bolivar & Coahoma Counties. The pandemic put a brief halt to our tour schedule, but I'm happy to have the chance to visit one-on-one again with the dedicated officials who help protect our election system. 

Click here to keep up with our 82-County Tour stops.


Clarksdale

State and Local Partnerships

Our office recently transferred state-owned property to the City of Clarksdale to allow the City to build a playground in the Riverton community. While it may seem simple to some, local families say the playground is a promise that has been in the works for more than 20 years. I had the chance to visit the project site and celebrate the announcement with community members and local leaders, including my old legislative colleague, Mayor Chuck Espy! I'm pleased to see the positive energy he’s building in Clarksdale, and I'm happy to play a small role.


ReadAcrossAmericaDay2

Read Across America Day

I had the honor of celebrating Read Across America Day with Mrs. Tyner’s kindergarten class at Madison Crossing Elementary. Reading is an essential part of education and plays a significant role in the development of our future leaders. The sooner we can encourage our youth to develop a love for books, the better. No matter your age or the genre, I encourage you to set aside time to get lost in a good book and encourage others to do the same. 

Recent News


Y'allPolitics_VotingBills

Y'all Politics (video): 
Secretary Watson talks with Y’all Politics after Mississippi Legislature lets voter integrity bills die

"Secretary of State Michael Watson has been an advocate of these voter integrity measures, calling on lawmakers to support legislation that ensures honest and fair state elections in Mississippi. 

He joined Y’all Politics on Wednesday afternoon to speak on the efforts to have these bills passed, offering his perspective of why they did not make it through the process this session and how such proposals could be considered in the future."

Click here to watch the interview. 

WDAM_MunicipalElections

WDAM (video):

Miss. Secretary of State Encourages Participation in Municipal Elections

"By now, you may have voter fatigue. But Mississippi Secretary of State Michael Watson says these elections deserve your attention and your involvement.

He says they have the most immediate impact on your everyday life on the local level, and you should make sure you’re engaged, know who’s running and do your homework."

Click here to watch the interview. 


Staff Spotlight

Brandi Mitchell

BrandiMitchell

Hometown: Brandon, MS

Brandi Mitchell serves our agency as a Division Coordinator for the Business Services Division. Her eagerness to work and determination to provide the  highest level of customer service makes her an all-star team member. No matter the challenge, one thing's for sure- Brandi will conquer it gracefully with the biggest smile on her face. Thank you for all you do to keep this ship running smoothly, Brandi!