The New Governor Defines the Executive's Role, September 10,1777

After the state constitution was promulgated, the convention quickly arranged for elections. General George Clinton was elected governor and the first members of the Senate and Assembly were also elected

In his first speech to the newly-elected legislature which had convened in Kingston, the new governor set the tone. He promised to fully carry out the executive powers in the constitution.

He urged the lawmakers to act on urgent matter, particularly, raising funds for the war effort.

Over the next few days, the legislature issued a response to the governor’s speech, Clinton offered his own response and outlined critical issues.