In the last decade, the governors association has become an influential voice on domestic social policy, and governors helped shape the new welfare law.

Last year, the governor helped speed into law a bill making the feeding of bears by residents illegal.

Jack wasn't sure if the former governor could help, but Falcon had told Jack to call him.

He and Mr. Thompson were not close, so the former governor never helped prepare his lieutenant to take over.

But when workers walk out, governors cannot help but get involved.

"A popular governor can help a candidate with the voters, but the real value is in terms of organizing the state."

The new governor, he said with a knowing laugh, "helped the negotiations along."

The governor said the local police chief and several officers might have conspired with the insurgents and helped them get away.

The only choice we have left is to defend for as long as possible, and hope that a nearby governor will come and help us.

The state's cities are still competing for money and bonds, which the governor can help steer their way.