Final answer:
The Secretary of State is the member of the plural executive who is appointed by the governor rather than elected by the public.
Step-by-step explanation:
The member of the plural executive who is appointed by the governor, rather than elected, is the Secretary of State. The governor nominates the Secretary of State with the advice and consent of the Senate, and this official serves during the term of the governor who appointed them. This structure varies from the other high-ranking officials within the state's executive branch, such as the lieutenant governor, attorney general, and comptroller, who are elected directly by the people. This appointment is one of the governor's key powers, and the position of Secretary of State is integral to the functioning of the state government, overseeing various administrative responsibilities.