Final answer:
In Texas, the governor is the highest-ranking state military leader, followed by the lieutenant governor, who wields significant influence in legislative matters and is part of a plural executive system.
Step-by-step explanation:
The governor of Texas is considered the highest-ranking state military leader in the state's chain of command. The next in line of authority is the lieutenant governor. The role of the lieutenant governor in Texas is very influential because this official presides over the Texas Senate and plays a key role in the legislative process, including deciding the fate of legislation through committee appointments and oversight.
Furthermore, the lieutenant governor is part of the plural executive system of Texas, where executive power is divided among several independently elected officials, thus providing a system of checks and balances distinct from the federal level.