Secretary of State Nancy Landry picks top assistant – Louisiana Illuminator

Louisiana Secretary of State Nancy Landry has appointed Catherine Newsome her first assistant, the agency’s number two position.

Newsome has worked with the Department of State as state archivist and executive director of the Louisiana State Archives for more than four years. She has 15 years of legal experience in the public and private sectors. Her practice has involved  international business and national security law, according to Landry.

“She has proven herself to be an invaluable member of our department’s staff,” Landry said in a statement. “Her efforts and leadership on the Operation Geaux Vote Task Force in 2020 and 2021 led to us being able to deliver safe, secure, and accurate elections to the people of Louisiana in two statewide elections following devastating natural disasters. I am confident she will be successful as our next First Assistant Secretary of State.”

Newsome’s appointment requires confirmation from the Louisiana Senate.

She is a graduate of the LSU Paul M. Hebert Law Center and received her undergraduate degree in journalism from Mississippi College.