How can the Texas governor be removed from office?

The removal of the Texas governor from office is primarily accomplished through impeachment by the Texas House and conviction by the Senate. This process reflects the system of checks and balances that governs actions against elected officials in Texas. Impeachment serves as a formal statement of charges against the governor, similar to an indictment. Once the House votes to impeach, the case is then brought to the Senate, which conducts a trial. If two-thirds of the Senate members vote to convict, the governor is removed from office.

This mechanism is rooted in the Texas Constitution, which outlines the specific grounds for impeachment, including misconduct or dereliction of duty, ensuring that the process is both systematic and fair. This highlights the serious nature of removing an elected official and the importance of legislative oversight in state governance.

Other methods mentioned, such as recall votes or statewide referendums, do not apply in Texas, as the state does not allow recall elections for the governor. Resignation can occur voluntarily, but it is not a removal process initiated by the state’s legislative mechanism. Thus, the gubernatorial removal process is distinctly defined through impeachment and conviction, making it a critical aspect of Texas state governance.