Who presides over the Illinois Senate?

The presiding officer of the Illinois Senate is the Lieutenant Governor. This role is crucial because the Lieutenant Governor not only oversees legislative sessions but also represents the Senate in various official capacities. In Illinois, the Lieutenant Governor's primary responsibility includes ensuring that the Senate operates smoothly and fairly during discussions and votes.

The other roles mentioned do not fill this particular function. The Governor does not preside over Senate sessions as their role is more focused on executive responsibilities and enforcing laws. The Secretary of State has a different set of duties related to state records and services rather than legislative proceedings. The Speaker of the House oversees the House of Representatives, not the Senate. Therefore, the Lieutenant Governor's position is key to understanding the functioning of the Illinois Senate.