Kirk Watson

Kirk Watson is the current mayor of Austin, Texas, having assumed office on January 6, 2023. This is his second term as mayor; he previously served from 1997 to 2001. During his first tenure, Watson earned praise for his efforts in environmental and economic development, including revitalizing Austin's downtown and initiating efforts to protect the Edwards Aquifer. He was re-elected in 2000 with 84% of the vote, the highest percentage ever for a mayoral candidate in Austin.

Watson has also had a distinguished career in the Texas Senate, serving from 2007 to 2020. He was recognized as "Rookie of the Year" by Texas Monthly in 2007 and was named one of the state's "10 Best Legislators" in 2009. His legislative work focused on transportation, clean energy, higher education, and healthcare. Wa