The State Executive Branch

A governor is the head of the executive branch of a state government in the United States. The powers of a governor vary depending on the state but generally include the authority to:

• Sign or veto legislation passed by the state legislature
• Appoint judges, members of boards and commissions, and other officials
• Serve as commander-in-chief of the state’s National Guard
• Prepare and submit a budget to the legislature
• Negotiate contracts and agreements on behalf of the state
• Issue executive orders and proclamations
• Pardon or commute sentences of convicted criminals of state crimes
• Represent the state in legal matters and negotiations with other states and the federal government
• Call the legislature into a special session

It should be noted that the power of governors differs from state to state, some may have more powers than others depending on their state’s Constitution.