Governor of Puerto Rico Gobernador de Puerto Rico |
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Office of the Governor | |
Style | His Excellency diplomatic Mister Governor when presiding First Executive third person |
Residence | La Fortaleza |
Term length | Four years, no term limit |
Inaugural holder | Juan Ponce de León |
Formation | 1508 (509 years ago) |
Salary | $70,000 (2013) |
Website | www.fortaleza.pr.gov |
The governor of Puerto Rico is the head of government of Puerto Rico and, by its nature, constitutes the executive branch of the government of the island. He is also the commander-in-chief of the island's military forces, the Puerto Rico National Guard.
The governor has a duty to enforce state laws, to convene the Legislative Assembly, the power to either approve or veto bills passed by the Legislative Assembly, to appoint government officers, to appoint Justices, and to grant pardons. Since 1948, the governor has been elected by the people of Puerto Rico. Prior to that, the governor was appointed either by the King of Spain (1510–1898) or the President of the United States (1898–1948).
Article IV of the Constitution of Puerto Rico vests the executive power on the governor and empowers him with the faculty to appoint officers. Law No. 104 of 1956 empowers him with the faculty to delegate functions. These two faculties in conjunction allow the governor to delegate most of his functions while continuing to be the maximum officer and head of government.