Kirk Watson

Kirk Preston Watson (born March 18, 1958)^[1] is an American attorney and Democratic politician. He was the 59th mayor of Austin since 2023. He was also the 54th mayor from 1997 to 2001.^[2] He ran unsuccessfully for Texas attorney general in the 2002 election, where he lost to Republican Greg Abbott. In 2006, Watson was elected to the Texas Senate.

Kirk Watson
54th & 59th Mayor of Austin
Incumbent
Assumed office January 6, 2023
Preceded by	Steve Adler
In office June 15, 1997 – November 9, 2001
Preceded by	Bruce Todd
Succeeded by	Gus Garcia
President pro tempore of the Texas Senate
In office January 8, 2019 – May 27, 2019
Preceded by	Robert Nichols
Succeeded by	Joan Huffman
Member of the Texas Senate from the 14th district
In office January 9, 2007 – April 30, 2020
Preceded by	Gonzalo Barrientos
Succeeded by	Sarah Eckhardt
Personal details
Born	Kirk Preston Watson (1958-03-18) March 18, 1958 (age 67) Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, U.S.
Political party	Democratic
Spouse(s)	Liz Ann McDaniel
Children	2
Education	Baylor University (BA, JD)