Final answer:
The Lieutenant Governor derives power from the state's constitution and laws, serving as the president of the Senate and assuming the governor's duties when necessary, with the Senate electing a successor if the position becomes vacant.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Lieutenant Governor gets his or her powers from the constitution and the laws of the specific state they serve in. In many states, such as Texas, the lieutenant governor is considered a powerful position due to the legislative and executive duties assigned.
The lieutenant governor often serves as the president of the Senate, having the ability to cast the deciding vote on legislation, and assumes the role of governor when the current governor is unable to fulfil their duties or is absent from the state. Furthermore, they play a crucial role in the budgetary process and have significant influence over the legislative agenda through committee appointments and scheduling powers.
Should the office of the lieutenant governor become vacant, a successor is typically elected by the state Senate. The president pro tempore of the Senate will perform the lieutenant governor's duties in the interim. This structure supports the continuous operation of the state government and underscores the importance of the position within the state's political hierarchy.