The editorial board says former Stockton Mayor Michael Tubbs exemplifies the traits that are arguably the most important for an almost entirely political role of lieutenant governor: He is an effective communicator and has consistently demonstrated political courage.

To the untrained political ear, “California lieutenant governor” sounds like a powerful and high-profile job.

In reality, it’s a largely ceremonial role with little authority to enact meaningful policy change.

Get Digital Access and Stay Informed With Trusted Local News.

Get Digital Access and Stay Informed With Trusted Local News.

Gov. Gavin Newsom, who held the position for eight years, described it as a “backwater.”

Article continues below this ad

Yes, the lieutenant governor needs to be competent enough to run things if the governor is out of state, passes away or is removed from office. The job commands a board seat on the state’s public higher-education systems — California Community Colleges, California State University and University of California — and on the State Lands Commission and Ocean Protection Council. The lieutenant governor is also president of the state Senate and can cast a tie-breaking vote.

But the primary instrument of the office is a modest bully pulpit — historically used sparingly while waiting for a better job to open.

See more S.F. Chronicle on Google

California should seriously consider a constitutional amendment to place the governor and lieutenant governor together on a joint ticket, which could improve governmental coordination and combat voter fatigue.

The Chronicle Editorial Board has begun rolling out its endorsements for California’s June primary election. In the weeks to come, we will publish our assessments of all the state races, including the governor’s race, plus local races and ballot measures. To read more about how the Editorial Board makes its election endorsements, go here.Plus: Look out for the Chronicle’s Voter Guide to publish in early May, as ballots get mailed out across the Bay Area.

Article continues below this ad

But it’s far too late for that for 2026. So, Californians will have to select from 16 candidates in the June primary to replace Eleni Kounalakis, who is........

© San Francisco Chronicle