#2 Assessment- The Executive Department –Texas Governor

Date Assigned: February 21, 2024, Wednesday, 8:00am.

Due by: Monday, March 4, 2024, 9:20am.

Value: 25 points (1/4 of your semester grade)

Production Instructions:
. Heading at top left or right (your choice)- Your name!!, date, section no.
. Title: The Executive Department–Texas Governor
. Length- 3 pages (3.5 pages max)
. Font- 12-point (Calibri, Times New Roman, or Arial are easiest to use)
. Double spaced
. Optional: Print front and back if desired.
. Staple your papers and submit in class.
. Please email me with any questions.
. Submit even if late. Some points are better than no points.

Writing Instructions:
Part A- Governor- 15 points. The Governor of Texas holds a constitutionally weak office because
the Texas Constitution limits its power (see Article 4).
Choose 3 from the list below and explain how the governor’s office could be strengthened by
expanding the following powers. Include their current limitations in your answers.
- Appointment (Article 4 Section 12)
- Budget planning and control (Art. 4 Sec. 9)
- Legislative (Art. 4 Secs. 14-15)
- Pardons and Paroles (Art. 4 Sec. 11)
- How would a Cabinet system strengthen the Office of Governor? (Art. 4 Secs. 1 and 2)

Part B- 2 tasks, 5 points each, or 10 total points:

Part B1- total 5 points. Executive Department. Choose ONE Texas state agency (board,
commission, etc.) and explain its basic purpose, responsibilities, duties, and overall budget. Google
your choice directly or get ideas and links from https://www.texas.gov/ .

Part B2- total 5 points. Border Control and Security- Be brief (1/2 p. max). The Governor has
asked for your advice about strengthening the border. What actions do you think he should take
for controlling and securing the border since the federal government isn’t carrying out its
Constitutional duty. Include at least two arguments supporting your position-favoring or
opposing. Your points will be earned by HOW you supported your position, and NOT on your
position. These will NOT be sent to the Governor or anyone else. Again, be brief!

*Key Websites:
Texas Governor: https://gov.texas.gov/
Texas Constitution: https://tlc.texas.gov/docs/legref/TxConst.pdf
Texas Government portal: https://www.texas.gov/
Internet: articles on your selections
Good luck!

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