As early as the first Federal elections in 1788, there were candidates, who while alligned with one party or another, was supported in the press by both parties in a particular election.

Secretary of State: In the official designations of certain ministers presiding over executive departments of state.

Oxford English Dictionary

1787 - 1824: Connecticut, Georgia, Kentucky, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, North Carolina, Ohio, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee

Office Scope: State

Role Scope: State