LG

League of Women Voters
of Camden County

A non-partisan organization, promoting political responsibility through informed and active participation in government.

LWVNJ position on the Lieutenant Governor position

The main position statement is:

The League of Women Voters of New Jersey believes that a separate office of Lieutenant Governor is appropriate to ensure the separation of powers in the event that the Governor vacates office. The League supports the role of Lieutenant Governor if the office has defined responsibilities, is cost effective, provides an opportunity for women and minorities to run for state office, and if the office is not used for political maneuvering. The League strongly disagrees with holding a special midterm election should the Lieutenant Governor succeed to Governor. The office holder should be allowed to serve the remainder of the term.

The League's main concern with the present law in NJ is expressed in the last two sentences.

The existing law requires a special election to replace the Governor if he or she leaves office mid-term. The Lieutenant Governor would only serve as Governor until that election took place. The League believes that this is a poor use of the Lieutenent Governor position, and may discourage talented individuals from seeking it, knowing that they would still have to fight to complete a term as governor even after being elected as LG. By comparison, if the US President dies or leaves office, the Vice President completes that term. The League believe the Lieutenant Governor should have the same opportunity.