Explainer Video: California's Lieutenant Governor
Sheehy Strategy Group is excited to introduce a new explainer video breaking down the role of California’s Lieutenant Governor. As the state’s second-highest executive, the Lt. Governor serves as acting governor when needed, helps shape economic development and higher education policies, and has historically been a stepping stone to the governorship. Watch our video to learn more about this influential position and its impact on state governance.
Lieutenant Governor
The Lieutenant Governor of California is the second-highest executive official in the state, elected for a four-year term, with a two-term limit. California's current Lieutenant Governor, Eleni Kounalakis, has been in office since 2019 and was re-elected in 2022. The Lt. Governor has been a stepping stone to the Governorship in the recent past, with both Governor Davis and Governor Newsom having served as California Lt. Governors and then moved on to the state’s top executive position. The Lieutenant Governor’s role involves serving as the acting governor when the Governor is out of the state or unable to perform duties, and succeeding to the governorship if the office becomes vacant.
In addition to these responsibilities, the Lieutenant Governor chairs the California Commission for Economic Development, helping to promote job creation and economic growth within the state. The officeholder also sits on several key boards and commissions, including the University of California Board of Regents and the California State University Board of Trustees, playing a pivotal role in shaping higher education policy in the state.
Although the position of Lieutenant Governor has limited direct authority, it serves as a bridge between the executive and legislative branches and provides strategic input on policy initiatives. In essence, the Lieutenant Governor acts as a partner to the Governor, contributing to statewide governance while independently overseeing critical areas like education and economic development.
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