Mississippi Secretary of State Launches Lt. Governor Campaign in Oxford

Michael Watson kicks off statewide announcement tour with visit to university town

Apr. 9, 2026 at 5:34pm

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A serene, cinematic painting depicting the Mississippi state capitol building in warm, golden light, conveying a sense of political transition and civic pride.The stately Mississippi state capitol building serves as a backdrop for the launch of Michael Watson's lieutenant governor campaign, a pivotal moment in the state's political landscape.Oxford Today

Mississippi Secretary of State Michael Watson announced on Tuesday that he is running for lieutenant governor in the 2027 statewide election. Watson followed the announcement with a visit to Oxford on Wednesday, where he met with supporters, local residents and officials during an event at the Graduate Hotel.

Why it matters

As a Republican candidate for lieutenant governor, Watson's campaign launch in Oxford highlights the political importance of the university town and the surrounding region in Mississippi elections. The lieutenant governor's office is a powerful position that can significantly impact the state's policy agenda, making Watson's candidacy an important development in the state's political landscape.

The details

A lifelong Republican, Watson began his campaign with a kickoff event in his hometown of Pascagoula. He is continuing a multi-day announcement tour with other scheduled stops in Gulfport, Hattiesburg, Jackson, Meridian, Starkville, Tupelo, Olive Branch, Cleveland and Brookhaven. During his Oxford visit, Watson spoke about the city's growth since his time as a student at the University of Mississippi, where he earned a bachelor's degree in business administration and a law degree. Watson said managing growth in areas like Oxford will be important if elected, pointing to infrastructure and housing as key needs in growing communities.

  • On Tuesday, Watson announced his campaign for lieutenant governor.
  • On Wednesday, Watson visited Oxford as part of his statewide announcement tour.

The players

Michael Watson

The current Mississippi Secretary of State who is running for lieutenant governor in the 2027 statewide election.

Trent Lott

Former U.S. Senate Majority Leader, for whom Watson interned in 1999.

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What they’re saying

“In everything I've done as a public servant, I've focused on this question: Where can I do the most good for Mississippi? I've looked for ways to help our state grow, and I've always put my faith, family and conservative principles at the forefront of every decision. So today, I'm announcing my campaign to be Mississippi's next lieutenant governor.”

— Michael Watson, Mississippi Secretary of State

“Obviously, the growth is incredible. It's very different than when I was here. But to me, the most important piece, it feels like home. Coming back here, spending time at Ole Miss, and bringing my daughters here now for games, walking around campus, those experiences just make my heart happy.”

— Michael Watson, Mississippi Secretary of State

What’s next

Watson will continue his statewide announcement tour with additional stops in Gulfport, Hattiesburg, Jackson, Meridian, Starkville, Tupelo, Olive Branch, Cleveland and Brookhaven.

The takeaway

Watson's campaign launch in Oxford highlights the political significance of the university town and the surrounding region in Mississippi elections. As a Republican candidate for lieutenant governor, Watson's focus on managing growth and addressing infrastructure and housing needs in communities like Oxford could be a key part of his policy platform.