Governor Law and Legal Definition
In the United States, a governor is the chief executive of each state and is elected by the people of the state. The governor derives his or her power under the state constitution and the laws of the state legislature. Most state laws provide for the lieutentant governor to succeed to the office of governor in certain cases of vacancy. State laws prescribe the time for holding a gubernatorial election for the governor of the next term, how long the term is, and who is eligible to run for the office.
The governor works with the legislature to enact laws and deal with budget issues. The governor plays a powerful role in shaping the priorities of each state's government and working with government officials to advance the interests of the state.
