POLS 207: Governors

What is the position of the governors relative to others like in Texas?

low due to plural executive: institutionally WEAK position, independently elected executive officials

How powerful is the governor's power to APPOINT?

fairly powerful: due to # of people governor gets to appoint (a lot)

How powerful is the governor's power to REMOVE?

weak: if elected, not allowed to remove previous governor's appointees (must wait until term is up)

Can the governor remove their OWN appointees?

Yes but must have approval of Senate

Who appointed the Board of Regents?

the Governor

Do we have term limits in Texas?

NO

How powerful is the Texas governor in regards to BUDGET?

little to no power over state budget

Is impeachment a LEGAL proccess?

no, it is a political process

people don't have control over it

Can the Legislative Branch CONVICT a governor?

no

Where is impeachment INITIATED?

the lower house, requires a simple majority (76/150 or more)

What does the HOUSE do in the impeachment process?

They are able to indict the official (say they have enough evidence for the official to stand trial in the Senate) then they are impeached

Where is the governor TRIED and CONVICTED?

the upper house (Senate), requires 2/3rds vote to convict

What happens if the 2/3rds vote is reached after impeachment?

punishment is removal out of office

What are some other EXECUTIVE offices besides governor? (in TEXAS)

lieutenant governor, attorney general, auditor, comptroller, secretary of state, land commissioner, agricultural commissioner, railroad commissioner

Does Texas have a TREASURER?

no