Definition of lieutenant governor

The term "lieutenant governor" can be traced back to English legal and military traditions. In medieval times, a lieutenant was a person appointed to act on behalf of a superior, typically a lord or a king, in their absence. This role evolved over time, and in the 16th century, the position of lieutenant governor was created in some English colonies as a means of governing in the absence of the governor. The term "lieutenant" literally means "deputy" or "second-in-command," and the lieutenant governor's primary duty has traditionally been to fill in for the governor when they are unable to perform their duties. In some states, however, the role of the lieutenant governor has expanded to include additional responsibilities, such as serving as president of the state senate or acting as a successor to the governor in case of a resignation, impeachment, or death. Today, lieutenant governors are elected directly by the people in many states, and the position can be seen as a stepping stone to higher political office.