Livonia, MI, May 20, 2026 – Citizens Research Council of Michigan today released Article V – Executive Branch, the eighth in a series of 15 papers that provide information to Michigan voters ahead of the November ballot question on whether a constitutional convention (con-con) should be held. The series examines each of the 12 articles of the Michigan Constitution and offers historical and other important background on past con-cons.

Unlike some other articles in the 1963 Constitution, Article V does not include obsolete provisions that have been ruled unconstitutional or inoperable – meaning a constitutional convention would not be tasked with developing conforming language with the U.S. Constitution or U.S. Supreme Court decisions. While Article V has not been the subject of considerable attention regarding amendments, a con-con could revisit the power of the governor and consider several issues surrounding the executive branch of government, including:

• the reorganization powers of the governor;
• single versus multiple heads of departments and agencies;
• the authority of the governor to call special elections to fill legislative vacancies;
• issues related to executive office vacancies;
• the governor’s responsibility for maintaining annual budget balance, particularly as it relates to executive order reductions; and
• the governor’s appointment authority, as it is limited by the senate’s advice and consent power.

The Research Council’s con-con series aims to provide voters with information to help them decide whether convening a constitutional convention is in Michigan’s best interest. The Citizens Research Council takes no position on whether to call a constitutional convention.