Lieutenant Governor of New Jersey: A Guide to the Role and Responsibilities
Overview
The Lieutenant Governor of New Jersey is the state’s second-highest-ranking official, behind only the Governor. The position is responsible for a wide range of duties, including presiding over the State Senate, serving as acting Governor in the Governor’s absence, and chairing various boards and commissions.
Key Responsibilities
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Presiding over the State Senate and ensuring the orderly conduct of business *
Serving as Acting Governor when the Governor is out of state or incapacitated *
Chairing the State Planning Commission, which is responsible for developing and implementing the state's long-range planning goals *
Serving as a member of the Governor's Cabinet and advising the Governor on a wide range of policy issues Qualifications and Election
To be eligible for the office of Lieutenant Governor, a candidate must be a registered voter in New Jersey and have resided in the state for at least four years prior to the election. The Lieutenant Governor is elected on the same ticket as the Governor and serves a four-year term.
Current Lieutenant Governor
Sheila Oliver is the current Lieutenant Governor of New Jersey. She was elected in 2018 alongside Governor Phil Murphy. Oliver is the first African American woman to hold the position of Lieutenant Governor in New Jersey.
Historical Significance
The office of Lieutenant Governor was created in 1844. The first person to hold the position was William Wright. Over the years, the Lieutenant Governor has played an important role in New Jersey's history. For example, Mahlon Dickerson, who served as Lieutenant Governor from 1815 to 1817, went on to become a U.S. Senator and Secretary of the Navy.
Conclusion
The Lieutenant Governor of New Jersey is a vital part of the state's government. The position is responsible for a wide range of duties, including presiding over the State Senate, serving as acting Governor in the Governor’s absence, and chairing various boards and commissions. The Lieutenant Governor is also an important voice in the Governor's Cabinet and helps to shape state policy.
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