The Lieutenant Governor: A Vital Role in State Government

The lieutenant governor is the second-highest ranking official in a state government, after the governor. The lieutenant governor typically presides over the state senate, votes in case of a tie, and assumes the duties of the governor if the governor is unable to serve.

History of the Lieutenant Governorship

The lieutenant governorship is a relatively old office, with the first lieutenant governor being appointed in the Massachusetts Bay Colony in 1692. The office was not originally seen as particularly important, but over time the lieutenant governor's role has grown in importance. In many states, the lieutenant governor is now responsible for overseeing a variety of state agencies and programs.

The Lieutenant Governor's Duties

The lieutenant governor's duties vary from state to state, but generally include: Presiding over the state senate: The lieutenant governor typically presides over the state senate, which is responsible for passing laws and approving the governor's appointments. Voting in case of a tie: In the event of a tie vote in the state senate, the lieutenant governor casts the deciding vote. Assuming the duties of the governor: If the governor is unable to serve, the lieutenant governor assumes the duties of the governor until the governor is able to return to office or a new governor is elected. In addition to these duties, the lieutenant governor may also be responsible for overseeing a variety of state agencies and programs. For example, in some states, the lieutenant governor is responsible for overseeing the state's department of education or department of health.

The Lieutenant Governor's Qualifications

The qualifications for lieutenant governor vary from state to state, but generally include: Being a registered voter in the state Being at least 18 years old Having resided in the state for a specified period of time Having no felony convictions In some states, the lieutenant governor must also be a member of the same political party as the governor.

The Lieutenant Governor's Election

The lieutenant governor is elected on the same ballot as the governor. In most states, the lieutenant governor is elected for a four-year term. However, in some states, the lieutenant governor is elected for a two-year term.

The Lieutenant Governor's Salary

The lieutenant governor's salary varies from state to state, but is typically around $100,000 per year. In some states, the lieutenant governor also receives a housing allowance and other benefits.

The Lieutenant Governor's Importance

The lieutenant governor is a vital role in state government. The lieutenant governor assists the governor in managing the state and assumes the duties of the governor if the governor is unable to serve. In addition, the lieutenant governor often oversees a variety of state agencies and programs.