1832 Rhode Island gubernatorial election

The 1832 Rhode Island gubernatorial election was held on 4 April 1832 in order to elect the Governor of Rhode Island. Incumbent National Republican Governor Lemuel H. Arnold won a plurality of the vote against former Democratic-Republican Governor James Fenner and incumbent Anti-Masonic Speaker of the Rhode Island House of Representatives William Sprague III. However, as no candidate received a majority of the total votes cast as was required by Rhode Island law, run-offs were held until a candidate received a majority. Following four run-offs which were held on 16 May, 18 July, 28 August and 21 November, no candidate was able to receive a majority. So Governor Arnold remained to serve as governor during the run-offs and in January 1833, the Rhode Island state legislature formalized Governor Arnold's win as he had come in first place in every election and run-off that was held. This permitted him to continue on as governor until the end of the term on 1 May 1833.

General election
On election day, 4 April 1832, incumbent National Republican Governor Lemuel H. Arnold won the election by a margin of 440 votes against his foremost opponent former Democratic-Republican Governor James Fenner. However, as no candidate had received a majority of the vote, several run-offs were held, all won by Governor Arnold but again without a majority. So the Rhode Island state legislature formalized Governor Arnold's win in January 1833, and he was allowed to serve out the rest of the term. He thereby retained National Republican control over the office of Governor. Arnold was sworn in for his second term on 1 May 1832 so he could remain as Governor admist the awaiting scheduled run-offs.