Email from Senator Tammy Mulchi Powers of the Governor Powers of the Governor   Greetings, This year, I have tailored my newsletters to focus on the upcoming election, specifically, where each candidate stands on the issues and what challenges are at stake. This is an election Virginians cannot afford to sit out, as its outcome will have a major impact on how our Commonwealth is governed. With that in mind, I want to focus on the powers of the Governor. Virginia’s system has several unique features that differ not only from our federal government but also from other state governments. It’s important for voters to understand exactly what the Governor’s powers are, how much control they have over state agencies, and how influential they are in the legislative process. Today, I am highlighting two powers that are especially unique to Virginia’s Governor.   One of the most significant powers is the appointment of cabinet secretaries (formally, “Secretaries of the Commonwealth” refers to a specific constitutional office, but in practice, this term is often used to mean the Governor’s Cabinet members). These positions are crucial to the operation of Virginia’s agencies. In other states, some equivalent officials are directly elected by the people; however, in Virginia, they are appointed by the Governor and report directly to him, working closely with agencies to implement his policies. While their roles and titles often mirror those of federal cabinet secretaries, there are notable differences in how they are appointed and operate at the state level. In Virginia, both chambers of the General Assembly must agree to confirm a cabinet appointment. If one party controls the House of Delegates and the other controls the Senate, the process often results in concessions or the appointment of more bipartisan candidates. If the chambers cannot agree before the end of the legislative session, the Governor may make an interim appointment that lasts until the next session. These interim appointments are especially impactful because, unlike Congress, the General Assembly typically meets in regular session only once a year. This means a Governor could simply wait until the end of session to appoint someone without legislative approval, allowing that appointee to exercise full authority in the meantime. Another unique power is the Governor’s veto authority. While most are familiar with the Governor’s ability to veto a bill outright, Virginia’s Governor can also return a bill with recommendations or amendments, or send it back with only recommendations. All of these—except taking no action—require General Assembly approval for the bill to become law. On top of this, the Governor wields an especially powerful tool in budget matters: the line-item veto. This allows the Governor to strike specific appropriations or language from the budget, and unless two-thirds of the General Assembly vote to restore them, those provisions remain removed. Governor Youngkin has made extensive use of this authority, shaping Virginia’s budget in ways that highlight the difference between state and federal budget processes. Of course, these are just two of the many responsibilities and powers of Virginia’s Governor. I’ve chosen to highlight them to illustrate just how influential the office can be. The Governor is often viewed as a “mini-president,” but in many respects, the role carries more concentrated authority over their government than the President has over the federal government. That’s why it’s critical we elect Republican Winsome Earle-Sears as our next Governor. She has proven herself as a strong conservative leader, dedicated to cutting wasteful spending, defending parental rights, supporting law enforcement, and advancing pro-growth economic policies. With the power to appoint key state leaders, shape the budget, and stand as a check against liberal overreach in the General Assembly, Winsome Earle-Sears will ensure Virginia stays on the path of fiscal responsibility, public safety, and common-sense governance. This November, we have the opportunity to secure strong, principled leadership for the next four years, and we can’t afford to let it slip away. My staff and I are always here to assist you with any issues or concerns. Please don't hesitate to reach out if we can be of service. You can reach us at 434.374.5129 or by email at [email protected]   I’m excited to invite all my friends in the Danville area to the opening of the new Republican Headquarters. This office will serve as the central hub for all campaign activities, and as you know, this election is critical to the future of our Commonwealth. Stop by to pick up a sign or sign up as a volunteer to help us achieve a big win in this year’s election. From our Governor By every measure, Virginia is outperforming expectations. We’ve delivered historic tax relief, record business investment, tremendous job growth and unmatched financial stability. Big news for Southside Virginia! MerryGoRound, Inc. will bring 203 well-paying jobs and a $10 million investment to Pittsylvania County. Virginia beat out strong competition from North Carolina and Puerto Rico for this project, showcasing the unmatched strength of our workforce and business environment. Link To Article Today is National Financial Awareness Day! Below are some tips from Longwood Small Business Development Center to help ensure your small business finances are in order. Learn More Here Virginia Department of Veterans Services ATTENTION: Virginia Veterans! On August 21, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) will host a Richmond Veterans Benefits and Resource Fair at the Greater Richmond Convention Center from 8am-4pm. DVS staff will be available to assist veterans with employment, transitioning, housing needs and more! Limited free parking for veterans and transitioning service members. Register Here U.S. Small Business Administration Small businesses power America’s rural communities! Learn about the available resources to help rural small businesses. Learn More Here From Tri-County Community Action Agency, Inc. Resource for Moms & Babies! Our Infant & Maternal Health webpage is now LIVE! Visit us online to explore our services and resources designed to support the health and well-being of mothers and infants. 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