Governors of Texas

Governors of Texas. The chief executive of the U.S. state of Texas is an office with a rich history spanning its time as a independent republic and its admission to the United States. The governor leads the state government, commands the state militia, and plays a pivotal role in the legislative process. Since the first governor under statehood, James Pinckney Henderson, the position has been held by individuals who have shaped the state's trajectory through periods of Reconstruction, economic boom, and modern political realignment.

List of governors of Texas

The roster of individuals who have served includes those from the Republic of Texas period, starting with Sam Houston and Mirabeau B. Lamar, and continuing through statehood. Since 1846, governors have been elected to terms that were initially two years but were extended to four years by a constitutional amendment in 1974. Notable long-serving governors in the 20th century include Allan Shivers, John Connally, and Rick Perry, the latter holding the office for a record 14 years. The current governor, Greg Abbott, succeeded Perry after serving on the Texas Supreme Court and as Attorney General.

Powers and duties

The governor's powers are derived from the Constitution of Texas and state statutes. As the state's chief executive, the governor has the authority to sign or veto bills passed by the Texas Legislature, call special sessions, and grant pardons and reprieves on the recommendation of the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles. The governor serves as the commander-in-chief of the Texas National Guard and the Texas State Guard, except when these forces are federalized by the President of the United States. Other significant duties include submitting a budget proposal to the legislature and appointing heads of numerous state agencies and members to boards and commissions, such as the University of Texas System Board of Regents.

Election and succession

Gubernatorial elections are held every four years, coinciding with the midterm elections in even-numbered years not divisible by four, such as 2018 and 2022. Candidates must be at least 30 years old, a U.S. citizen, and a resident of Texas for at least five years preceding the election. If the office becomes vacant due to death, resignation, or impeachment, the Lieutenant Governor assumes the governorship, as happened when Rick Perry succeeded George W. Bush after Bush's election as President. The next in the line of succession is the President pro tempore of the Texas Senate, followed by the Speaker of the House.

History and notable governors

The governorship has evolved significantly from the provisional government of the Texas Revolution. During the Civil War, Governor Sam Houston was removed from office for refusing to swear allegiance to the Confederate States of America. The Progressive Era saw figures like James Stephen Hogg, the first native-born governor, champion anti-trust laws. In the 20th century, John Connally was a defining figure of conservative Democratic control until being wounded in the assassination of President Kennedy. The modern Republican dominance of the office began with the election of Bill Clements in 1978, breaking a streak of Democratic governors since Reconstruction.

Residences and symbols

The official residence of the governor is the historic Texas Governor's Mansion in Austin, located near the Texas State Capitol. The mansion, completed in 1856, has housed most governors since Elisha M. Pease and is a protected historic landmark. The primary symbols of the office include the Seal of Texas, which features a lone star, and the use of the Flag of Texas. The governor also has the use of a state aircraft, often a Beechcraft King Air, for official travel across the vast state.

Category:Governors of Texas Category:Texas state agencies