The standard argument is that the office is weak, but it does have a few substantive powers. Often the governor's power depends on the personality of the individual holding the office. We'll cover this in 2306 this week.
Here are a few items to place the issue in perspective:
- Texas Tribune: A Weak Governor System, With a Strong Governor.
- Slate: Is George W. Bush a "Weak" Governor?
- On the issues: Is Texas a "weak governor" state?
- Wall Street Journal: In Texas, a Weak Office Becomes Stronger.
- How much POWER does the Governor of Texas have?
- The Atlantic: Rick Perry, American Caudillo.
Worth a look: Why Strong Governors?