What this office does: Serves a four-year term. Proposes a state budget, signs or vetoes bills, directs state agencies, makes appointments to lead agencies and serve on boards (can also remove people), and leads in emergencies. The governor cannot make laws alone but has significant power to shape priorities and how the state government is run. Can oversee the state through executive orders. Coordinates with the federal government when needed.
Why it matters: Influences funding or all aspects of state government, state lands, water policy, agency rules, disaster response, and whether bills passed by the legislature become law.