Governor of Massachusetts

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Incumbent
Maura Healey

since January 5, 2023

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The Governor of Massachusetts is the head of the executive branch of Massachusetts's state government and the commander-in-chief of the state's military forces. The governor has a duty to enforce state laws and the power to either approve or veto bills passed by the Massachusetts General Court, to convene the legislature, and to grant pardons, except in cases of impeachment.

History

The position of Governor of Massachusetts was established in 1780, during the American Revolution, with the adoption of the Massachusetts Constitution. The first governor was John Hancock, who took office in 1780. Since then, the role has evolved, but the core responsibilities have remained largely the same.

Duties and Powers

The governor's responsibilities include:

• Enforcing state laws
• Approving or vetoing legislation passed by the Massachusetts General Court
• Convening the legislature
• Granting pardons, except in cases of impeachment
• Serving as the commander-in-chief of the state's military forces

The governor also has the power to make appointments to various state offices and to fill judicial vacancies.

Election and Term

The governor is elected every four years by a plurality and can serve an unlimited number of terms. The election is held in even-numbered years that are not presidential election years. The governor and the Lieutenant Governor of Massachusetts are elected on the same ticket.

Residence

The official residence of the governor is the Massachusetts State House in Boston. The governor's office is located in the State House, which is also the seat of the Massachusetts General Court.

Related Offices

The governor works closely with the Lieutenant Governor of Massachusetts, who is elected on the same ticket and serves as acting governor in the governor's absence. Other key officials include the Massachusetts Attorney General, the Massachusetts Secretary of the Commonwealth, and the Massachusetts Treasurer and Receiver-General.

List of Governors

A comprehensive list of past governors can be found on the List of governors of Massachusetts page.

See Also

• Massachusetts General Court
• Massachusetts Constitution
• Lieutenant Governor of Massachusetts
• Massachusetts State House
• John Hancock

External Links

• Office of the Governor

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