Governors and the politics of succession

Governors and the Politics of Succession

In many countries, governors play a crucial role in the politics of succession, particularly in presidential systems where the head of state is elected separately from the head of government. The relationship between governors and the politics of succession can be complex, with governors often serving as key players in the process of selecting and supporting candidates for higher office. Here are some ways in which governors can influence the politics of succession:

1. Building relationships with national leaders: Governors often have close relationships with national leaders, including the president or prime minister. These relationships can be leveraged to influence the selection of candidates for higher office and to secure support for gubernatorial candidates.
2. Developing political networks: Governors often have extensive networks of political allies and supporters within their state or region. These networks can be used to mobilize support for candidates and to influence the outcome of elections.
3. Providing a platform for national candidates: Governors can provide a platform for national candidates to campaign and build support within their state or region. This can be particularly important for candidates who are seeking to build a national coalition.
4. Influencing the selection of vice presidential candidates: In some cases, governors may have a role in selecting the vice presidential candidate, particularly if the presidential candidate is from the same party or region.
5. Supporting presidential candidates: Governors may support presidential candidates from their own party or region, providing critical endorsements and campaign resources.
6. Influencing the transition process: Governors may play a role in the transition process, providing guidance and support to incoming national leaders and helping to ensure a smooth transfer of power.

Examples of governors influencing the politics of succession include:

• In the United States, governors have often played a key role in supporting presidential candidates from their own party. For example, Governor Mitt Romney of Massachusetts supported John McCain's presidential campaign in 2008, while Governor Chris Christie of New Jersey supported Donald Trump's campaign in 2016.
• In Nigeria, governors have often played a key role in selecting and supporting candidates for higher office. For example, Governor Akinwunmi Ambode of Lagos State supported President Muhammadu Buhari's re-election campaign in 2019.
• In South Africa, governors have played a key role in supporting presidential candidates from the African National Congress (ANC). For example, Governor David Makhura of Gauteng Province supported President Cyril Ramaphosa's campaign for the ANC presidency in 2017.

Challenges and limitations:

• Regionalism: Governors may prioritize regional interests over national interests, which can create tensions and challenges in the politics of succession.
• Partisan divisions: Governors may be divided along partisan lines, which can make it difficult to build consensus and support for national candidates.
• Limited influence: Governors may have limited influence over national politics, particularly if they are from a smaller or less influential state or region.
• Corruption and patronage: Governors may engage in corrupt practices or use their position to reward political allies and supporters, which can undermine the integrity of the politics of succession.

In conclusion, governors can play a significant role in the politics of succession, particularly in presidential systems. Their relationships with national leaders, political networks, and ability to provide a platform for national candidates can all influence the outcome of elections and the selection of candidates for higher office. However, governors must navigate regionalism, partisan divisions, limited influence, and corruption and patronage to effectively influence the politics of succession.