* As we’ve discussed before, the National Conference of State Legislatures is holding its big annual meeting in Chicago next week. Check out this discussion on Thursday, called Balancing the Powers of Governors…

Legislatures often fare poorly when taking on the governor–the deck seems stacked in favor of the executive branch. Alan Rosenthal, the leading academic expert on state legislatures, advises legislative leaders on how to work with governors and play a consultative role in shaping their agendas. His new book, “The Best Job in Politics,” examines why governors are so successful at achieving their goals. He will be signing copies of his book, which will be available for purchase, right after the session.

I think Illinoisans can probably skip that one. Or maybe the governor could send a spy to see why other states have such powerful chief executives.

Discuss.

…Adding… But here’s one that could be useful. Campaigning to Governing and Back Again…

Staff, especially partisan and personal staff, often are working for the legislature by day and campaigning by night. Learn best practices on managing the state work/campaign work divide. Debate case studies demonstrating the ethical dilemmas inherent in serving in this dual role. Learn tips to help get you through the election and back through the capitol door.

* Facilitator: Peggy Kerns, NCSL
* Panelists: Patrick Fuller, Assembly Chief Clerk’s Office, Wisconsin Legislature
* Tim Mapes, Office of the Speaker, Illinois General Assembly
* Naomi Miller, Texas House of Representatives
* Natalie O’Donnell Wood, NCSL

Emphasis added, for obvious reasons.