Secretary Michael Watson Update

Michael Watson - Secretary of State

Thursday, May 13, 2021


Land Conservation

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As the trustee of Public Trust Tidelands and state-owned properties, it's critical for me, along with my team, to understand influences that may affect our natural resources both along the Coast and across the state. The Nature Conservancies of Mississippi and Louisiana recently organized a trip for my office to learn more about the Mid-Basin Sediment Diversion Program at the Louisiana State University Center for River Studies. 

During the visit, we observed the land-building power of the Mississippi River at the Caernarvon Diversion, and the US Army Corps of Engineers gave an operational briefing and tour of the Bonnet Carre Spillway. This visit is one of the first steps in creating partnerships that will help us craft a statewide conservation plan that works for Mississippi and our neighboring states. The information gathered will be vital in protecting our coastal resources for future generations of Mississippians. 


EagleScout

Good Scout Award

I was honored to receive this year's Good Scout Award during the Jackson County Friends of Scouting's Good Scout Luncheon in Pascagoula. Each year, the organization presents the award to an individual they feel exemplifies good citizenship. While I was proud to accept this accolade, the real credit goes to my parents for raising me in a Christian environment and for teaching me the values of being a good and productive citizen. I’m thankful the for all of the community Scout leaders who so selflessly work with young Mississippians to teach them the same values. To all Mississippi Scouts, keep up the great work!

*Pictured: Lucia Barberena of Ocean Springs, the first female in Mississippi to earn Eagle Scout status. 


CookiesMilk

Cookies & Milk with
SOS New Hires

Our SOS family is steadily growing, but no matter the size of our agency, it's still important for me to establish and foster relationships with all employees. This week, I had the chance to meet and mingle with our newest team members while sharing my favorite snack: cookies and milk! We shared stories about our hometowns and hobbies, engaged in a friendly debate about whose alma mater was the best, and discussed the overall goals for our office.

I'm excited to welcome these unique individuals to our team: Laura Lee Allen, Anna Carollo, Ashli Coggins, Stephanie Lewis, Steven Linick, David Potvin, Preston Thomas, John Wilson, and Samuel Wilson. Please do not hesitate to reach out if you need anything! 


DayOfPrayer

National Day of Prayer

I loved having the opportunity to participate in the 2021 National Day of Prayer observance at the Mississippi Coliseum. It was a beautiful time of reflection, prayer, and worship. May we all continue to shine a hopeful and encouraging light on our great state! 

Recent News


WLOX2

WLOX: Hancock County Land Auction

"Secretary of State Michael Watson just announced an effort that should recoup tax revenue for Hancock County and the state, but city and state leaders also believe the project could revitalize Bay St. Louis and the surrounding area."

Click here to watch the live report.

SuperTalk

SuperTalk Mississippi
(VIDEO)

"Secretary of State Michael Watson stops by the studio to break down the primary run-offs taking place across the state today, the ballot initiatives being discussed, the Supreme Court hearing on Initiative 65, and more!"

Click here to watch the full interview.


Staff Spotlight

Kyle Kirkpatrick

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Hometown: Gautier, MS

Kyle Kirkpatrick joined the SOS Office in January 2020 as our Senior Elections Attorney but was recently promoted to our Assistant Secretary of State over the Elections Division! During his short time with the agency, he's helped oversee a presidential election in the midst of a global pandemic, assisted with countless trainings, and provided consistent guidance to help strengthen our overall election system. He's extremely hardworking yet incredibly humble, and I'm excited to see how he excels in this new role. Congratulations again, Kyle!