Replies

Some state constitutions like GA, set the Lt. Gov as the functional head of the state senate. It is very difficult for any laws to come up to a vote without the Lt. Gov’s approval no matter what party may have the majority. Texas is like this and there are probably a few other states as well.

Arguably, in the states where the Lt. Gov has this senate role, the Lt. Gov is actually the most powerful politician in the state and not the Governor.

From what I could tell, the GA senate was within 6-8 votes of having the number needed for calling the special session in early December. Arm twisting and committee assignment threats or promises squashed the December special session vote very substantially once it was allowed eventually. Supposedly, our house leadership could whip up sufficient special session votes but was waiting for the senate to show its cards first.