National Governors Association: Bridging State and Federal Governance
The National Governors Association (NGA) is a cornerstone of American political coordination, serving as a vital link between the executive leaders of the states and the federal government. Founded in 1908, this bipartisan organization brings together the governors of all 50 states as well as five federal territories and commonwealths to collaborate on policy, share innovations, and advocate for state interests on the national stage.
By acting as a public policy liaison, the NGA ensures that the voices of state executives are heard at the White House and on Capitol Hill. Whether addressing federal legislation or developing internal state programs, the association provides the infrastructure necessary for governors to navigate the complexities of executive federalism—the interaction between state and federal executive branches.
Key Facts
- Founded: 1908 (118 years ago).
- Membership: 55 members (50 states, 5 territories/commonwealths).
- Leadership: Currently chaired by Governor Wes Moore (D-MD) and Vice Chair Mike Braun (R-IN).
- Bipartisan Structure: The chair position alternates annually between Republican and Democratic governors.
- Headquarters: Washington, D.C.
Core Functions and Services
The NGA provides a comprehensive suite of services designed to support both new and incumbent governors. Its primary role is to represent state interests during discussions on federal issues, ensuring that national policies are informed by state-level realities.
A central pillar of the organization is the NGA Center for Best Practices. This entity focuses on identifying and scaling state-led innovations in critical sectors, including:
- Education and Health
- Technology and Environment
- Welfare Reform
Beyond policy research, the NGA hosts networking seminars for executive branch officials and provides essential management and technical assistance to help governors lead their states effectively.
History and Evolution
The origins of the NGA date back to 1907, when the Inland Waterways Commission suggested a conference of governors to address the management and utilization of natural resources during the Progressive Era. This led to the formal establishment of the association in 1908.
To maintain its bipartisan identity, the NGA formalized a policy in 1977 (practiced since 1941) requiring the chair and vice chair to be from opposite political parties. This ensures that no single party controls the leadership for two consecutive years. Historically, the association has seen significant milestones, such as the appointment of Janet Napolitano as the first female chair in 2006. Notably, Bill Clinton is the only former NGA chair to ascend to the presidency of the United States.
Funding and Membership
The NGA is funded through a combination of state dues, private contributions, and federal grants and contracts. Its membership includes the 50 states and five territories: American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Challenges to Bipartisanship
Despite its commitment to bipartisanship, the NGA has faced internal and external pressures. In 2014, the organization's unity was challenged following public statements made by Louisiana Governor Bobby Jindal. More recently, the association has dealt with geopolitical concerns; in February 2020, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo warned that the Chinese Communist Party was attempting to influence U.S. policy through state and local officials. This led to the October 2020 discontinuation of the U.S.-China Governors Forum to Promote Sub-National Cooperation.
Political tensions have also manifested in membership withdrawals. In July 2025, Governors Laura Kelly (Kansas) and Tim Walz (Minnesota) announced their intent to leave the NGA, citing the organization's response to the second presidency of Donald Trump. In October 2025, Governors Gavin Newsom (California) and JB Pritzker (Illinois) threatened withdrawal over the deployment of the National Guard against the wishes of state governors.
NGA Leadership Overview
The leadership of the NGA follows a strict rotation. Traditionally, a governor serves as Vice-Chair/Chair-Elect for one year before ascending to the Chair position for a one-year term.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Current Chair | Wes Moore (D-MD) |
| Current Vice Chair | Mike Braun (R-IN) |
| Membership Count | 55 (50 States, 5 Territories) |
| Leadership Rotation | Annual alternation between parties |
| Primary Funding | State dues, federal grants, private contributions |
States Without a Chair
While most states have held the leadership position, a few have never produced an NGA chair, including Alabama, Alaska, Connecticut, Hawaii, Mississippi, New Mexico, North Carolina, Oregon, and South Dakota. None of the five U.S. territories have held the chair position to date.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is the NGA Chair selected?
The position of NGA chair alternates every year between a Republican and a Democratic governor. Typically, the governor serves as Vice-Chair for one year before becoming the Chair.
What is the purpose of the NGA Center for Best Practices?
The Center focuses on identifying and sharing innovative state-level solutions and best practices regarding health, education, technology, the environment, and welfare reform.
Which U.S. territories are members of the NGA?
The five member territories are American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Has any NGA chair ever become President of the United States?
Yes, Bill Clinton is the only former NGA chair to have served as the President of the United States.
How is the National Governors Association funded?
The organization is primarily funded through dues paid by the states, as well as private contributions and contracts or grants from the federal government.