Who must fill a vacancy during the North Carolina Commissioner of Insurance's term of office?

The correct answer is that the Governor of North Carolina must fill a vacancy during the Commissioner of Insurance's term of office. This is based on the state's governance structure, where the Governor holds the authority to appoint replacements for various state officials when vacancies arise, ensuring that the office remains functional and continues to serve the public effectively.

The decision to allow the Governor to make such appointments is rooted in the need for swift action to avoid disruptions in the regulatory processes overseen by the Commissioner of Insurance. This role is crucial for managing the insurance industry within the state, including protecting consumers and overseeing the solvency and practices of insurance companies.

Other choices, while they might involve some aspects of government oversight and appointment, do not hold the specific power to fill this particular vacancy. The Lieutenant Governor does not have authority over these appointments, and the state legislature typically has different responsibilities focused on lawmaking rather than filling executive roles. The Insurance Board, while involved in the regulatory framework, does not have the power to appoint a new Commissioner. Thus, the Governor's role is clearly defined and necessary for maintaining continuity in the office.