JACKSON, Miss. (WJTV) – Secretary of State Michael Watson (R-Miss.) urged voters to show up at the polls on April 1 for the Municipal Primary Election.

“People tend to get a little bit drained from the election space. And what we like to remind them of is, look, these are the elections are going to impact your lives much more quickly than something at the federal level and or at the state level,” said Watson.

Municipal leaders make daily, local decisions for their residents. Those decisions include services like utilities and schools.

“The rules or regulations, the ordinances that they can pass so quickly at that local level are the ones that impact your lives the most. Because, again, this is day-to-day life. These are our public utilities. These are, you know, your trash services. These are your local level things that impact you, your children,” Watson stated.

Municipal government also plays a large role in maintaining and improving public infrastructure, which can affect your pocket books. That’s why Watson said it’s best to be informed on who you are voting for.

The Secretary of State said he’s disappointed by recent voter turnout numbers. He’s encouraging more voters to cast their ballots during the Municipal Primary Election.

“Too many times, you know, you see really low turnout, but people want to complain, and they forget, well, wait a minute. Your opportunity to complain is at the ballot box,” Watson said.

The voter registration deadline for the primary has already passed, but you have until March 24 to register for runoff elections.

The General Election Voter Registration deadline is May 5.