Answer:
A. Lieutenant governor.
Step-by-step explanation:
The post of a Lieutenant Governor is a state official in 45 of the 50 states of the United States. And in most cases, this position is the highest state government position below the governor.
In terms of responsibilities, the Lieutenant governor can preside over the senate in the absence of the governor. He/ she can also take on the role and responsibility of the governor in the absence or death of the latter.
Thus, the correct answer is option A.