Lecture notes for 4/28/99

Article 4 of the Texas Constitution talks about the governor and the executive branch.
     -Qualifications for governor
          -At least 30 years of age
          -Texas resident for at least 5 years prior to the election
          -U.S. citizen
     -Informal requirements
          -White, Anglo-Saxon protestant
          -Middle-aged
          -Most often, the individuals are attorneys
          -From a political standpoint, most are Democrats
          -Political ideology:  conservative
          -Involved in civic affairs
          -Rich
          -Held previous political office
          -Most are male
     -Salary:  $100,000
     -Stays in official mansion
     -Traveling and operating budget
     -Private limousine and jet
     -Staff of 200 people
     -Official duties of governor
          -Chief executive
               -Lieutenant governor position is more powerful than chief executive's power
               -Appointing members to the board and commission
                    -All appointments must be approved by 2/3 of the state Senate
               -Remove certain people from office
                    -Those who cannot be removed by the governor can be removed
                         by impeachment
               -Unified budget to legislature
               -Supervisor of state bureaucracy and policy agendas
          -Chief legislator
               -Ability to call a special session to discuss specific topics
                    the governor wants addressed
               -State of the state address
               -Biennial budget message
               -Veto power
                    -Can be overridden by 2/3 majority in both houses
               -Line-item veto on appropriation bills (very little press coverage)
          -Commander-in-chief
               -Controlling armed forces
               -Call national guard into service for certain causes
                    -ex.  natural disaster (martial law in times of emergency)
          -Chief of state
               -Give speeches
               -Leading parades
               -Hosting state dinners
          -Chief intergovernmental diplomat
               -Also known as the state's ambassador to other states
               -Involves working in different districts/levels
     -Informal responsibilities
          -Chief of party
          -Head of the people
               -Public appearances and rallies