Kennett native is named chief of staff by Gov-Elect Nixon

On Friday, Nov. 7, Governor-elect Jay Nixon announced that John R. Watson, formerly of Kennett, will fill the role of chief of staff under the new governor's administration.

Watson, who has served as Nixon's chief of staff at the Attorney General's office since 1997, will now serve as the governor's top advisor, overseeing the operations of the office and staff.

As chief of staff in the Attorney General's office, Watson has overseen all legislative and budgetary matters, as well as policy issues involving public safety, consumer protection, education, health care, and government efficiency.

Prior to being appointed as chief of staff at the Attorney General's office, Watson was an assistant attorney general. He has also worked for the state's Department of Economic Development, as well as Emerson Electric in St. Louis, Mo.

"John has been a trusted and valued advisor to me throughout my tenure as Attorney General, and I know he will be an asset to the people of Missouri as chief of staff in my administration," Nixon said. "John will bring his incredible intellect, keen knowledge of state government, private sector experience and passion for public service to the Governor's office. Missouri will benefit greatly from John's service as chief of staff."

Although Nixon acknowledged that he has a long history with Watson, he said it was because of Watson's qualifications that he was selected.

"The appointment of John Watson is because as I look around the state, he's the best person prepared to be chief of staff to the governor of Missouri," Nixon said.

"It's an honor to have the opportunity to serve Missouri as chief of staff to the governor," Watson said. "Over the past 15 years, I've come to know Governor-elect Nixon as a highly skilled, dedicated leader. The governor-elect has a bold agenda to change the direction of Missouri's economy, and I look forward to helping him turn those ideas into public policies that will make a difference for Missouri families."

A graduate of Kennett High School, Watson went to earn both his bachelor's and law degrees from the University of Missouri at Columbia. He is the son of John and Mary Lou Watson of Kennett.