By Helen Wilson
For many delegates at Youth and Government, the Governor's Cabinet—often called Gov Cab—may seem like a mystery. This group of appointed delegates serves as the Governor’s advisory team, making critical decisions on the final outcome of bills. If your bill makes it to Gov Cab, you have one last chance to present it, and if it passes, it becomes part of the official YAG Bill Book. But what happens behind those closed doors? Let’s take a look inside a day in the life of Gov Cab to understand their role better.
The process begins the moment you step into the office. You sign in—this year, with our 2022 Governor, Noah Wayne—before being greeted by a welcoming group of cabinet members. Despite their authority, they quickly reassure you that the presentation is meant to be informal and lowkey rather than intimidating. Their relaxed approach helps calm your nerves, making the experience feel less high-stakes and more like a conversation with your peers.
Next, you deliver your opening statement, aiming to highlight the most important aspects of your bill. The cabinet listens carefully and then asks a series of thoughtful questions. These can range from clarifications within your bill to potential challenges and the overall goal of your bill. Once the discussion ends, they congratulate you, thank you for your time, and send you on your way. But while your part in the process ends there, the actual decision-making has just begun. Their job is to ensure that only the strongest, most impactful bills make it into the Bill Book.
Many delegates don’t realize that one Gov Cab member has been tracking and analyzing a bill long before the bill author (s) ever entered the room. By the time you start speaking, every member already has access to your bill, with notes and potential verdicts prepared. After a brief discussion, they reach a final decision—whether it’s a pass or a fail, simply making it to Gov Cab is a significant accomplishment.
For those who aspire to join Gov Cab in the future, the experience offers a behind-the-scenes look at the legislative process. And for delegates presenting before them, it’s a chance to engage in one of YAG’s most exciting, high-level parts.
