The Association was formed to provide strong leadership in an era of critical change in the economy and demography of the West. The Western Governors recognize that many vital issues and opportunities shaping our future span state lines and are shared throughout the West. Mission WGA members include the governors of Alaska, American Samoa, Arizona, California, Colorado, Guam, Hawaii, Idaho, Kansas, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Mexico, North Dakota, Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, Oregon, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming. Through their Association, the Western Governors identify and address key policy and governance issues in natural resources, the environment, human services, economic development, international relations and public management.
Governors select the issues based on regional interest and impact.
WGA helps the governors develop strategies both for the complex, long-term issues facing the West and for the region's immediate needs. Governors use the WGA to develop and advocate policies that reflect regional interests and relationships in debates at the national and state levels. WGA's executive director is James M. Souby . WGA member governors also created the Western Governors' Foundation and they serve as the Foundations board of directors. The Foundation accepts grants and gifts from corporations, foundations and individuals.