Executive Department

The Office of Governor was created by the Maine Constitution. Gubernatorial terms were one year until 1880, when they were expanded to two year terms. In 1962, the term was lengthened again to 4 years.

The Governor serves to direct the affairs of the State according to law; to take care that the laws be faithfully executed; to give the Legislature information regarding the condition of the State and recommend measures for their consideration; to submit to the Legislature a biennial budget for the operation of State government; to act as Commander-in-Chief of the military forces of the State; to nominate and appoint all judicial, civil, and military officers of the State except as otherwise provided by law; to require information from any officer in the Executive Branch upon any subject relating to the respective duties; to grant reprieves, commutations, and pardons, and remit, after conviction, forfeitures and penalties; and to accept for the State any and all gifts, bequests, grants or conveyances to the State of Maine.

The Executive Council was established with the Maine Constitution in 1820 as an advisory council to the Governor. Composed of 7 members, generally from the legislative majority party, it was dissolved by statewide referendum in 1975.