Governor Richards was short on policy accomplishments, but long on symbolic accomplishments such as the appointment of women and minorities to positions of importance in state government. Her shortcomings were excessive partisanship and embarrassment caused by some of her appointments. In terms of formal powers, the Texas governor is among the weakest in the nation. The plural executive structure and weak removal powers limit the governor s ability to influence the executive branch. Informal powers, particularly the ability to persuade and access to the media, are crucial sources of gubernatorial influence.
Legislative bargaining is also critical to gubernatorial success.
The diffused power structure of government and a weak governor allow more influence by powerful business interests in Texas politics. Have the students go to the reference room of the library and look in The Book of the States to see the changes in the Republican and Democratic shares of the votes in gubernatorial primary elections and general elections since 1974. This information is also available from the Texas Secretary of State. Identify the formal and informal powers of the governor. Compare and contrast the use of informal powers by Ann Richards and George Bush and evaluate the success, strengths, and weaknesses of each.