Governing States and Localities, Chapter 8

Veto

The power to reject a proposed law.

Supermajority Vote

A legislative vote of much more than a simple majority, for instance, a vote by two-thirds of a legislative chamber to override a governor's veto.

Formal Powers

The powers explicitly granted to a governor according to state law, such as being able to veto legislation and to appoint heads of state agencies.

Informal Powers

The things a governor is able to do, such as command media attention and persuade party members, based on personality or position, not on formal authority.

Appointment Powers

A governor's ability to pick individuals to run state government, such as cabinet secretaries.

Bully Pulpit

the platform from which a high-profile official, such as governor or president, commands considerable public and media attention by virtue of holding office.

Impeachment

A process by which the legislature can remove executive branch officials, such as the governor, or judges from office for corruption or other reasons.

Recall Election

A special election allowing voters to remove an elected official from office before the end of his or her term.

Executive Orders

Rules or regulations with the force of law that governors can create directly under the statutory authority given them.