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The Lieutenant Governor of Texas: A Historic Overview
Introduction
The Lieutenant Governor of Texas is the second-highest-ranking elected official in the state government, behind the Governor.
The position was created in the Texas Constitution of 1845, which established the office as the presiding officer of the Texas Senate.
The Lieutenant Governor also serves as the President of the Senate and is responsible for presiding over its sessions.
Responsibilities
Legislative Duties
- Presiding over the Texas Senate
- Casting tie-breaking votes
- Appointing members of Senate committees
Executive Duties
- Serving on the Governor's cabinet
- Acting as Governor in the event of the Governor's absence
- Filling vacancies in state offices
Ceremonial Duties
- Representing the state at official functions
- Presenting awards and honors
- Attending public events
History
The first Lieutenant Governor of Texas was Albert C. Horton, who served from 1846 to 1847.
There have been a total of 48 Lieutenant Governors of Texas, including the current Lieutenant Governor, Dan Patrick.
The longest-serving Lieutenant Governor was William P. Hobby, who served from 1917 to 1921 and again from 1923 to 1925.
Notable Lieutenant Governors
- Albert C. Horton (1846-1847): The first Lieutenant Governor of Texas
- William P. Hobby (1917-1921, 1923-1925): The longest-serving Lieutenant Governor
- Miriam A. Ferguson (1925-1927, 1933-1935): The first female Lieutenant Governor
- Bob Bullock (1973-1991): The most influential Lieutenant Governor in recent history
- Dan Patrick (2015-present): The current Lieutenant Governor
Conclusion
The Lieutenant Governor of Texas is a powerful and influential position that plays a vital role in the state government.
The Lieutenant Governor has a wide range of responsibilities and duties, including presiding over the Senate, serving on the Governor's cabinet, and acting as Governor in the event of the Governor's absence.
Throughout its history, the office of Lieutenant Governor has been held by many notable individuals who have left a lasting legacy on the state of Texas.
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