Governor of Texas

The Governor of Texas is the chief executive of the U.S. state of Texas. The governor directs the executive branch of the government of Texas and is the Commander-in-Chief of the Texas Military Forces. The role includes making recommendations to the state's legislative body, ensuring state laws are enforced, and ensuring peace within the state is maintained.

Powers and duties

The Governor of Texas has significant authority over state administrative appointments and a strong influence on the legislative process. The governor has the power to:

• Veto legislation passed by the Texas Legislature
• Call the legislature into special session
• Grant pardons and reprieves, except in cases of impeachment
• Appoint heads of state agencies and boards

History

The office was established in 1836 when Texas was an independent republic. The first governor, James Pinckney Henderson, took office in 1846, the year Texas joined the United States. Since then, Texas has had numerous governors, some of whom have gone on to higher political offices, including the President of the United States.

Election

The governor is elected to a four-year term during the statewide general election. As of the current constitution, there is no limit to the number of terms a governor can serve.

Recent officeholders

Recent governors of Texas have included Rick Perry, who served from 2000 to 2015, and the current governor, Greg Abbott, who has been in office since January 20, 2015.

See also

• Lieutenant Governor of Texas
• Texas Attorney General
• Texas Secretary of State