Former Mayor Kirk Watson Throws Hat Into Senate Ring
By Damon McCullar
From the Press Release:
Kirk Watson, former Mayor of Austin, attorney and mediator, kicked off his campaign for State Senate District 14 today with a strong list of endorsements.
“I am passionate about Texas and Senate District 14 and am proud to run and serve this district,” said Watson. “I look forward to continuing to hear the concerns of Central Texans and discussing solutions for our future.”
The Austin Police Association, Texas Public Employees Association (TPEA), and AFSCME Texas, the County, State and Municipal employees union, boosted the campaign with early endorsements for Watson, citing his commitment to safety, community and jobs.
“As Mayor, his vision helped make Austin what it is today – the 2nd safest big city in the country to live in,” Mike Sheffield, president of the Austin Police Association said Monday. In 2001, the Austin Police Department honored Watson with the title of “Honorary Colonel” for his commitment to public safety.
Greg Powell of AFSCME Texas shared Sheffield’s view. “Kirk has demonstrated he is a dynamic leader and tremendous advocate for Austin and will be a fantastic advocate for Travis County.”
“Kirk Watson understands the needs of our community,” Gary Anderson, executive director of Texas Public Employees Association stated. “He is certainly part of Austin’s future and we look forward to working with him as State Senator. He has a deep understanding and knowledge of the public employees system, which represent a large and dynamic part of Austin, and Kirk will be a strong supporter of public servants as he always has been.
“My father was a public employee for over 30 years, and that is why these organizations are so important to me,” Watson continued. “I look forward to representing everyone in my district because I remember my history.”
Kirk Watson grew up in the Fort Worth area and attended public school in Saginaw, Texas. He has been married for 26 years to Liz McDaniel Watson. They have two sons, Preston and Cooper. Both children attend Austin public schools. Senate District 14, currently held by retiring Senator Gonzalo Barrientos, incorporates most of Travis County.
For more information about the Kirk Watson for Texas Senate campaign, please visit www.KirkWatson.com
Posted by Damon McCullar at September 13, 2005 03:30 PM
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