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2026 LEGISLATIVE PRIORITIES
With the 2026 Legislative Session well underway, I recently announced campaign finance reform as my main priority. While our team has been advocating for this for years, the need for reform is greater than ever.
Over the last year, we have seen indictments come down on elected officials in both Jackson and the Delta in which illegal money was funneled through campaign accounts. This isn't just about transparency anymore; it's about ensuring the law is followed.
Our campaign finance reform bill includes a mandatory online filing system for all candidates, streamlining the process while ensuring accountability. The bill also includes a cash limitation of $1,000 and a bank account requirement. Our goal remains to eliminate corruption and increase enforcement of campaign finance laws.
A big thank you to Attorney General Lynn Fitch for collaborating with us this year and also Senate Elections Chairman Jeremy England for spearheading the legislation.
Please join me in praying for our state legislature as it makes tough decisions over the next few months.
MORE NEWS
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OFFICIAL STATEMENT: Lobbyist Registration Clarification
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TODAY IN MISSISSIPPI: Michael Watson: Serving and giving back
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PRESS RELEASE: Secretary Michael Watson Warns of Increasing Uses of Bitcoin ATM Scams
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2026 ELECTIONS
As we gear up for a busy election year, I challenge all Mississippians to take some time to educate themselves on the 2026 elections. To learn more about the upcoming races, the official Candidate Qualifying List may be viewed on Secretary of State's website.
The 2026 Primary Election for U.S. House of Representatives and U.S. Senate will be held on March 10. The voter registration deadline for this election is February 9.
All elections, whether municipal or federal, impact our daily lives. Casting your ballot on Election Day ensures your voice will be heard.
Our office remains your trusted source for election information. You can stay up-to-date on all things elections by visiting YallVote.ms and following our #Elections101 campaign on Facebook, X, and Instagram.
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SECURITIES PROSECUTION
We continue to see an uptick in scammers who defraud Mississippians and an increased need to hold these bad actors accountable. I'm proud of Eric Slee and our Securities team for their daily efforts to protect our securities investors.
A big thanks to the Attorney General's Office and our other state and federal partners for their teamwork on this recent prosecution. Together, we will keep shedding light on these schemes while safeguarding Mississippians' hard-earned dollars.
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CORINTH ROTARY VISIT
Had a great visit recently with my fellow Rotarians in Corinth and followed it up with a visit to the Coca Cola museum. I'm grateful for these folks and their warm hospitality. Our Magnolia State is full of amazing people and industries. |
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STUDENT AMBASSADOR SHADOWING
I was excited to host one of our SOS Student Ambassadors, Lauren Skinner, who shadowed us at the office for a day. She met with members of our staff and attended our Legislative Priorities press conference.
I continue to be thankful for the opportunities to help mentor these students as they prepare for their futures. Applications will open soon for the 2026-2027 Student Ambassador class. Stay tuned!
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HOME BUILDERS ASSOCIATION VISIT
A special thanks to the Home Builders Association for inviting me to speak. Through our Tackle the Tape initiative, we remain committed to helping them navigate the regulatory burden. I appreciate their hard work and investment in their communities and our state. We appreciate all they do!
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STENNIS INSTITUTE VISIT
Had the opportunity to spend some time with the MSU Stennis Institute of Government students during their day at the Capitol. This engaged group is undoubtedly some of Mississippi's best and brightest, especially since it included several of our former SOS Student Ambassadors! Love seeing our alumni doing great things.
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MSHCA VISIT
Thank you to the Mississippi Health Care Association for the invitation to share the great things happening at our office. Appreciate the important work these professionals do for all Mississippians and their leadership in our healthcare system.
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VISIT WITH LAURYL JOYNER
Loved catching up with one of our former SOS Student Ambassadors, Lauryl Joyner. Now Miss Madison County, Lauryl is preparing to compete in Miss Mississippi this year. She met with us to partner on an early childhood reading initiative.
Watching our Student Ambassadors succeed is truly inspiring and encourages me to be better each day. The future is bright in Mississippi!
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EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT
Angie Vanlandingham
Angie serves as an Investigator in our Securities Division. She joined the Secretary of State's Office in 2024.
Angie has been an excellent addition to the Securities Division through her skills of caring and connecting with the public. She assists Mississippi scam victims, finding help and providing education in each case. Angie goes above and beyond in her responsibilities, demonstrating a true heart for helping those in need.
We are extremely blessed to have Angie on our team and appreciate her service to Mississippi!
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