Mississippi is governed under a constitution of 1890, as amended. Previous constitutions had been adopted in 1817, 1832, and 1869. Constitutional amendments may be proposed by a two-thirds majority of the legislature. To become effective, an amendment must be approved by a majority of persons voting on the issue in a general election.

Executive

The chief executive of Mississippi is the governor, who is elected to a 4-year term and may serve two successive terms. In case of death, removal from office, or incapacity to serve, the governor is succeeded by the lieutenant governor, who is also elected to a 4-year term. Other elected executive officials include the secretary of state, the treasurer, the auditor of public accounts, the attorney general, the commissioner of agriculture and commerce, and the commissioner of insurance.

Legislature

The Mississippi legislature consists of a 52-member senate and a 122-member house of representatives. All legislators are elected to 4-year terms.

Judiciary

Mississippi's highest court, the supreme court, has nine justices popularly elected to 8-year terms. The justice with seniority of service becomes chief justice for the remainder of his or her term. The major trial courts are chancery and circuit courts, with a total of 79 judges popularly elected to 4-year terms. Chancery courts hear civil cases, and circuit courts try both civil and criminal cases. Other tribunals include county, municipal, justice, and family courts.

Local Government

Mississippi is divided into 82 counties, each of which is administered by an elected five-member board of supervisors. The state also has a total of more than 290 cities and towns.

National Representation

Mississippi elects five representatives and two senators to the U.S. Congress. The state has seven electoral votes in presidential elections.