GOVERNOR, in the States, Territories and acquired possessions of the United States. Be fore the attainment of independence by the English colonies in regions that now form part of the United States, the term "governor* de noted the chief executive of each colony, either appointed by the Crown, or by the proprietor or — as in the case of Connecticut and Rhode Island, and of Massachusetts till it lost its char ter in 1684—chosen by the freemen of the colony (compare an article by the late John D. Long, Governor of Massachusetts 1880-81, in
mander-in-chief of the military forces of the State, and has the appointment of his military staff, but usually the other officers of the militia are now elected by vote from within the vari ous military lines." In a few States the gov ernor still appoints the judges. His participa tion in the labors of the legislative branch is to a certain extent direct. Thus, he can call the legislature together for extraordinary ses sions; he possesses (save in North Carolina) the power of vetoing enactments, with the ex ception of constitutional amendments. But not less Important —in time of crisis, indeed, even more important—is the governor's influence in shaping legislation °altogether beyond the limitations of his strict constitutional range" by the legitimate exercise of powers inherent in leadership, expressing and enforcing by his utterances the views, the demands and the judgment of his State.
The official standing of governors of the Territories or acquired possessions of the United States is sharply contrasted with that of gov ernors of States. The former receive appoint ment from the President of the United States and are removable at his pleasure. Moreover, adaptation to varying conditions and circum stances is often required. For example, in the naval government of the island of Guam (a naval station) the governor combines execu tive with legislative powers. See EXECUTIVE.