Which of the following is NOT a function of the executive branch at the state level?

The choice that identifies a function NOT typically associated with the executive branch at the state level is conducting elections. While state governors and executive officials may play roles in overseeing the election process, the direct responsibility for conducting elections primarily falls to the state’s election officials and local governments. These entities manage logistics, voter registration, ballot design, and the counting of votes, ensuring elections are run fairly and smoothly.

The other functions listed—enforcing state laws, managing state budgets, and issuing executive orders—are standard responsibilities of the executive branch. The executive branch is fundamentally responsible for implementing and enforcing laws passed by the legislative branch, overseeing the allocation of state funds and resources through budget management, and issuing executive orders, which are directives that have the force of law within the scope of state governance. Each of these functions underscores the executive branch's role in maintaining the effective administration of state government.