Who is the Lieutenant Governor of Missouri?
The Lieutenant Governor of Missouri is the second-highest executive office in the state government of Missouri. The Lieutenant Governor serves as the president of the Missouri Senate and assumes the office of the Governor if the Governor is unable to serve.
Current Lieutenant Governor of Missouri
As of 2023, the current Lieutenant Governor of Missouri is Dawn Wessell. She is a member of the Republican Party and has been serving in this position since January 2023.
Responsibilities of the Lieutenant Governor
The Lieutenant Governor of Missouri has several key responsibilities, including:
• President of the Missouri Senate: The Lieutenant Governor serves as the president of the Missouri Senate, presiding over Senate sessions and casting tie-breaking votes.
• Assuming the Office of the Governor: If the Governor is unable to serve, the Lieutenant Governor assumes the office of the Governor.
• Representing the State: The Lieutenant Governor represents the state of Missouri at official events and ceremonies.
• Supporting the Governor: The Lieutenant Governor supports the Governor in carrying out their duties and responsibilities.
History of the Lieutenant Governor of Missouri
The office of the Lieutenant Governor of Missouri was established in 1826, shortly after Missouri became a state. The first Lieutenant Governor of Missouri was Alexander McNair, who served from 1826 to 1832.
Here is a list of the Lieutenant Governors of Missouri from 1826 to 2023:
| Lieutenant Governor | Term |
|---|---|
| Alexander McNair | 1826-1832 |
| Frederick Bates | 1832-1836 |
| Thomas L. Anderson | 1836-1840 |
| … | … |
| Mike Parson | 2018-2023 |
| Dawn Wessell | 2023-present |
Qualifications and Election
To be eligible to serve as the Lieutenant Governor of Missouri, a person must:
• Be at least 30 years old
• Be a citizen of the United States
• Have been a resident of Missouri for at least five years
The Lieutenant Governor is elected by the people of Missouri through a statewide vote. The election is typically held every four years, with the winner serving a four-year term.
Salary and Benefits
The Lieutenant Governor of Missouri is paid a salary of $133,000 per year. They also receive a range of benefits, including:
• A budget for official expenses and travel
• Use of the Governor’s Mansion and other state facilities
• Security protection
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Lieutenant Governor of Missouri is a vital part of the state government, serving as the president of the Missouri Senate and assuming the office of the Governor if necessary. The current Lieutenant Governor of Missouri is Dawn Wessell, who has been serving in this position since January 2023. With a long history dating back to 1826, the office of the Lieutenant Governor continues to play an important role in the state government of Missouri.
