Kentucky Constitution Articles 5. The Executive Department
Kentucky Constitution – Article V: The Executive Department
🔹 Overview:
Article V of the Kentucky Constitution establishes the structure, powers, and responsibilities of the Executive Branch of Kentucky’s government. It outlines the roles of the Governor, Lieutenant Governor, and other executive officers, as well as their qualifications, election, powers, and duties.
🔹 Key Provisions of Article V:
Section 70 – Executive Power:
The executive power of the Commonwealth is vested in the Governor.
Section 71 – Election and Term:
The Governor and Lieutenant Governor are elected together for a four-year term.
A person may not serve more than two successive terms.
Section 72 – Eligibility Requirements:
A candidate for Governor must be:
At least 30 years old,
A citizen of the U.S. for at least 15 years,
A resident of Kentucky for at least 6 years before the election.
Section 73 – Governor and Lieutenant Governor Joint Election:
They run as a slate (joint ticket) in the general election.
Section 74 – Governor’s Powers and Duties:
The Governor is the chief executive officer and commander-in-chief of the state's military forces (except when in service of the U.S.).
Responsible for faithful execution of laws.
Section 75 – Legislative Interaction:
The Governor may convene the General Assembly in special session.
Must deliver an annual message on the condition of the Commonwealth.
Section 76 – Pardons and Reprieves:
The Governor has the power to grant pardons, commutations, and reprieves, except in cases of impeachment.
Section 77 – Filling Vacancies:
The Governor fills vacancies in state offices unless otherwise provided by law.
Section 78 – Compensation:
The salaries of the Governor and Lieutenant Governor are set by law and cannot be increased or diminished during their term.
Section 79 – Oath of Office:
The Governor must take an oath to support the Constitution of both the U.S. and Kentucky and to faithfully perform their duties.
Section 80 – Succession:
If the Governor is unable to serve, the Lieutenant Governor assumes the office.
If both are unable, succession passes to other constitutional officers as prescribed by law.
🔹 Other Executive Officers (Outside Article V but constitutionally established):
Secretary of State
Attorney General
Auditor of Public Accounts
State Treasurer
Commissioner of Agriculture
Each has separate constitutional or statutory authority and is elected independently.
🔹 Summary:
Kentucky’s Article V creates a strong but accountable executive led by the Governor, with defined checks, term limits, and shared electoral responsibility with the Lieutenant Governor. It also includes powers for emergencies, appointments, and legislative interaction, while ensuring continuity in government through a detailed succession plan.
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