Watson wins GOP race for Secretary of State

State Sen. Michael Watson of Hurley has won the Republican nomination for Mississippi secretary of state. The 41-year-old lawyer beat southern district Public Service Commissioner Sam Britton of Laurel.

Watson will face former Hattiesburg Mayor Johnny DuPree in November after DuPree won the Democratic primary on Tuesday. Current Secretary of State Delbert Hosemann, a Republican, is running for lieutenant governor.

Watson pledges to do more to prevent noncitizens from registering to vote and proposes that the secretary of state take over driver’s licensing in an effort to reduce waiting times.

The race between Watson and Britton was one of the most bitter of the primary season. Britton alleged Watson had insufficiently supported President Donald Trump, while Watson said Britton had a history as a Democratic candidate and supporter, didn’t know enough about the office, and benefited from questionable campaign spending.