1842 Massachusetts gubernatorial election

The 1842 Massachusetts gubernatorial election consisted of an initial popular election held on November 14, 1842 that was followed by a legislative vote held on January 17, 1843. The ultimate task of electing the governor had been placed before the Massachusetts General Court because no candidate received the majority of the vote that was constitutionally required for a candidate to be elected through the popular election. Incumbent Whig Governor John Davis was defeated by Democratic nominee and former Governor Marcus Morton.

Candidates

 * Marcus Morton, Democratic, former Governor
 * John Davis, Whig, incumbent Governor
 * Samuel E. Sewall, Liberty

Legislative vote
As no candidate received a majority of the vote, the Massachusetts House of Representatives was required nominate two of the four top vote-getters to the Massachusetts Senate, which then chose one of the two as Governor. The House nominated Davis and Morton. The election in the Senate was held on January 17, 1843.