Question

Is it more accurate to say that the Texas governor is the state’s “chief persuader” than to say that he or she is the “chief executive”? Why or why not? Who actually holds the power as outlined in the Texas constitution? What is that power?

Answer 1

In Texas, the top executives in government are elected, rather than appointed by the governor. Thus, the accountability and continued service of these executives are determined by voters. The Texas Constitution of 1876 delegated many of the powers other governors hold to these officials. Also, the officials may not even be of the same political party as the governor. Thus, it takes compromise and persuasion for the governor of Texas to advance his policies while in office.