Nixon appoints John Watson as state auditor following Schweich’s death

Governor Nixon has appointed John Watson, his senior advisor, as Missouri State Auditor following the Thursday death of State Auditor Tom Schweich.

Watson will serve as auditor until a permanent appointment is made by the governor.

Under Missouri law, when there is a vacancy in the auditor seat, the governor will immediately appoint the auditor to fill the spot.

“I have tremendous respect for the State Auditor’s Office, and I will carry out these duties in service to the people of Missouri,” said Watson. “I continue to keep Tom Schweich’s family and friends in my thoughts and prayers, and join them in mourning this loss.”

Watson currently serves as senior advisor to the governor. Watson served as Chief of Staff to Governor Nixon from January 2009 until December 2014, and served as Chief of Staff to then-Attorney General Nixon from 1997 until his election as Governor. Watson is a Missouri native.