The Lieutenant Governor of Kentucky is the second-highest constitutional officer in the state of Kentucky. The position of lieutenant governor was first created by the Kentucky Constitution of 1792. The current lieutenant governor is Jacqueline Coleman, who has been in office since December 2019.
Role and Responsibilities
The role of the lieutenant governor is to serve as the immediate successor to the governor in case of death, resignation, or removal from office. The lieutenant governor also serves as the President of the Senate and casts the deciding vote in case of a tie.
Additionally, the lieutenant governor serves as an ambassador for the state of Kentucky, promoting economic development, education, and tourism. The lieutenant governor also chairs several boards and commissions and serves as a member of others.
Selection Process
The lieutenant governor is elected on a ticket with the governor, meaning that they run together on the same ballot. The candidates for governor and lieutenant governor are nominated in primary elections by their respective political parties.
Once nominated, the candidates run together in the general election. The candidate for governor who receives the most votes is elected, and the candidate for lieutenant governor on the same ticket is also elected.
List of Lieutenant Governors of Kentucky
Since the creation of the office of lieutenant governor in 1792, there have been 53 different individuals who have held the position. Some of the most notable lieutenant governors include:
- John Crittenden: Served as lieutenant governor from 1808-1812 and went on to serve as U.S. Attorney General, U.S. Senator, and Governor of Kentucky
- Wendell H. Ford: Served as lieutenant governor from 1971-1974 and went on to serve as U.S. Senator and Governor of Kentucky
- Steve Beshear: Served as lieutenant governor from 1983-1987 and went on to serve as Attorney General and Governor of Kentucky
Conclusion
The lieutenant governor of Kentucky is an important constitutional officer who serves as the immediate successor to the governor and plays a key role in the legislative process. With a long list of notable individuals who have held the position, the lieutenant governor continues to be a vital part of Kentucky's political landscape.