Constitutional Officers

The Constitutional State Officers are among the highest elected officials for the state.  They play an important role in directing the activities of the Executive Branch.  These officers include the Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Secretary of State, Treasurer, Commissioner of Agriculture, Attorney General, and State Auditor.

Though different responsibilities accompany each office, it is the duty of each to meet the needs of the state, execute its laws and services, and to see that it operates efficiently. 

Each of these offices is elected every four years, but only the Governor and Lieutenant Governor run jointly.  They all may serve a maximum of two terms.

The Governor is the chief executive officer of the commonwealth--meaning that he is the highest ranking official in the Executive Branch.  He oversees the enforcement of laws and services for Kentuckians.  Click here to read more about Governor Steve Beshear and his wide range of responsibilities.

Click here for a list of past Governors.

Just as the Vice President runs for office with the President, the Lieutenant Governor runs for office jointly with the Governor.  He serves on many commissions and boards, and if something were to happen to the governor, the Lieutenant Governor would take his place.  Click here to learn about Lieutenant Governor Jerry Abramson and his other responsibilties.

The Attorney General is the chief law officer for the state.  He ensures that all government services and offices are executed ethically and according to the law.  Click here to read more about Attorney General Jack Conway and the additional responsibilities of his office.

The Secretary of State is responsible for providing and preserving a variety of information for the public.  It is her duty to help Kentuckians of all ages stay informed about their government and the civic process.  That's why her office maintains this website for kids! Click here to learn more about Secretary of State, Alison Lundergan Grimes and her office.

An auditor performs evaluations and inspections.  In the case of the State Auditor, his or her office evaluates the efficiency of the state government.  Click here to read more about State Auditor Adam Edelen and his office.

The State Treasurer is the chief fiscal officer for the state.  He or she is responsible for recording and monitoring all of the state’s financial activities to ensure that the state government is acting in the best interest of taxpayers. Click here to learn more about State Treasurer Todd Hollenbach and his office.

The Commissioner of Agriculture is the head of the Kentucky Department of Agriculture which helps direct activities and provides information for and about one of Kentucky's largest industries: farming.  Click here to learn about Commissioner of Agriculture, James R. Comer and his office.