The Lieutenant Governor: A Vital Role in State Government

What is a Lieutenant Governor?

The Lieutenant Governor (Lt. Governor) is the second-highest official in the executive branch of a state government, after the Governor.

In most states, the Lt. Governor is elected on the same ticket as the Governor, and serves a four-year term.

Duties and Responsibilities of the Lieutenant Governor

The duties and responsibilities of the Lt. Governor vary from state to state, but typically include:

• Presiding over the state Senate
• Assuming the duties of the Governor if the Governor is unable to serve
• Serving as acting Governor when the Governor is out of state
• Performing other duties as assigned by the Governor

Lieutenant Governors as Leaders

In recent years, Lt. Governors have taken on a more active role in state government.

Many Lt. Governors have used their positions to advocate for specific policy initiatives, or to lead task forces on important issues.

The Future of the Lieutenant Governor

The role of the Lt. Governor is likely to continue to evolve in the years to come.

As states face new challenges, Lt. Governors may be called upon to take on an even greater leadership role.