What action does the governor take if a vacancy occurs in the office of the Commissioner of Insurance?

When a vacancy occurs in the office of the Commissioner of Insurance in North Carolina, the governor is empowered to take actions that are consistent with the responsibilities of that role. The correct answer signifies that the governor will directly replace the commissioner.

This process is rooted in the governing laws that outline how the state’s executive branch manages such vacancies to ensure that the insurance regulatory framework remains intact and effective. By allowing the governor to appoint a replacement, the state can maintain continuity in leadership and governance within the Department of Insurance. This method is also efficient compared to calling for a special election, which would be a more time-consuming process and could hinder the operational capabilities of the office during the vacancy.

The other potential actions, like creating a temporary position or appointing a new commissioner directly, do not align with North Carolina's established procedure, which clearly indicates the governor's role in appointing a successor on a more permanent basis to uphold regulatory standards effectively.