Because of the importance of federalism, most governors play both a personal and an institutional role.
On a personal level, the governor will often serve as an advocate for state interests. He or she will often play an active role in working with the Congress and with cabinet members and other executive branch officials to make sure that state concerns are understood and addressed. Many governors also actively participate in collective activities like those of the National Governors Association. The governor’s role as a state political leader can also prove helpful in accessing and influencing federal decision makers. (NGA website, accessed July 2006)