Governors and the politics of succession #comments

The politics of succession in the United States can be complex and contentious, particularly when it comes to the office of the governor. Here are some key points to consider:

Governors and the Line of Succession

  1. Line of Succession: In the event of a vacancy in the office of the governor, the line of succession is typically as follows:
    • Lieutenant Governor
    • Speaker of the State House of Representatives
    • President Pro Tempore of the State Senate
    • Secretary of State
    • Other state officials in the order specified by state law
  2. Variations: Some states have variations on this line of succession, such as:
    • A specific individual or group of individuals who are designated as the next in line
    • A specific process for filling a vacancy, such as a special election or appointment by the legislature
  3. Governor's Powers: Governors have significant powers, including the ability to:
    • Veto legislation
    • Appoint officials and judges
    • Grant pardons and reprieves
    • Convene and adjourn the legislature
    • Make emergency declarations

Succession Controversies

  1. Disputes over Line of Succession: There have been instances where disputes have arisen over the line of succession, particularly when the lieutenant governor is unable to assume the office.
  2. Governor's Attempts to Disrupt Succession: In some cases, governors have attempted to disrupt the line of succession, either by:
    • Appointing a loyalist to a key position
    • Using their powers to undermine the authority of the next in line
    • Engaging in other forms of political maneuvering
  3. Legislative Intervention: In some cases, the legislature has intervened to resolve succession disputes, either by:
    • Passing legislation to clarify the line of succession
    • Appointing a new governor or lieutenant governor
    • Taking other actions to stabilize the situation

Recent Examples

  1. Maryland (2015): When Governor Martin O'Malley left office, the lieutenant governor, Anthony Brown, assumed the office. However, there was a dispute over whether the next in line, the Speaker of the House of Delegates, should have been given the opportunity to assume the office.
  2. New York (2021): When Governor Andrew Cuomo resigned, the lieutenant governor, Kathy Hochul, assumed the office. However, there was a dispute over whether the next in line, the Speaker of the Assembly, should have been given the opportunity to assume the office.

Conclusion

The politics of succession in the United States can be complex and contentious, particularly when it comes to the office of the governor. Governors have significant powers, and disputes can arise over the line of succession. In some cases, the legislature may intervene to resolve succession disputes, while in other cases, the dispute may be resolved through other means, such as a special election or appointment by the legislature.