Chapter Summary

Texans' distrust for authority and Reconstruction era experiences led the framers of the Constitution of 1876 to establish a relatively weak office of the governor. While Texas governors may have a tendency to become national figures, they are saddled with relatively weak formal powers. The executive branch of Texas divides powers and responsibilities among officials who win office through their own independent, partisan campaigns. The governor has limited appointment powers in the state matched by weak budgetary powers. Often, governors make use of the short legislative sessions to make interim appointments that require Senate confirmation the next session. In addition, Texas governors develop informal powers to gain more political influence on policy formulation and implementation.

Historically, Texas governors have shared some common characteristics. Most Texas governors have been white, Protestant, and wealthy. On the other hand, the voters of Texas have embraced political outsiders trying to win the governorship. By tapping into Texans' basic distrust of government and belief in individual freedoms, a variety of colorful characters have won office throughout Texas history.

The executive branch of Texas, described as a plural executive, consists of the Lieutenant Governor, Attorney General, Comptroller of Public Accounts, Agriculture Commissioner, Land Commissioner, Texas Railroad Commission, Secretary of State, and several boards and commissions. With the exception of the appointment of the secretary of state by the governor, the voters in statewide "off-year" elections, held in between presidential elections, elect these executive branch officials. In Texas, laws have been enacted to provide bureaucratic transparency and formal assessment of the effectiveness of state agencies.

Review questions

What are the formal powers of the Texas governor?

Is the Texas governor weak?

How might we change the Texas executive?

How is the bureaucracy held accountable in Texas?