State government
varies by state.

Governor

The governor leads a state’s executive branch and administers laws through state agencies.

Common responsibilities

• Signs or vetoes state legislation under the state constitution
• Proposes a budget and policy priorities
• Appoints agency leaders and, in some states, judges or board members
• Coordinates statewide emergency response

State Senator or Representative

State legislators write state laws, set the state budget, and represent geographic districts.

Common responsibilities

• Introduces and votes on bills
• Approves state taxes and spending
• Reviews agencies through hearings and committees
• May confirm appointments or vote on constitutional amendments

Attorney General

The attorney general represents the state in legal matters and performs duties assigned by the state constitution and laws.

Common responsibilities

• Represents state agencies and officials in court
• Issues legal opinions where state law authorizes them
• Enforces selected consumer, civil, or criminal laws
• Defends or challenges laws on the state’s behalf

State Judges and Justices

State courts interpret state law and decide civil, criminal, family, probate, and other cases within their jurisdiction.

Common responsibilities

• Rules on evidence and legal disputes in cases
• Conducts trials or reviews lower-court decisions
• Interprets state statutes and constitutions
• Issues judgments and remedies authorized by law